AIDS Volunteer Programs in Africa

Throughout my placement in Croatia, IVHQ provided me with the relevant help and support needed to make my stay as stress free as possible. I would highly recommend this company and encourage anyone contemplating a placement.

This was my first experience abroad for any reason. I hadn't been off the North American continent prior to Zanzibar! IVHQ provided tremendous advice and guidance to set me at ease. I know I can trust them for my next solo trip. No hestitation about a second experience with them.

My internship at the Salesian Institute Youth Projects pushed me far beyond what I expected, taking me from supporting program logistics to independently running counseling sessions and managing my own client caseload within just a few months. I was trusted with real responsibility early on, from leading a group of 45 adult learners on my own to adapting a therapeutic intervention on short notice for an urgent client referral, and that trust taught me more about clinical work and resilience than I could have learned in a classroom. This experience confirmed that clinical psychology, particularly cross-cultural and community-based care, is exactly the path I want to pursue.

Connect-123 made my experience in Ireland truly incredible. From the beginning, they did an amazing job matching me with a company that fit my personality, interests, and career goals. I couldn’t have asked for a better internship experience. They also did a great job planning weekend trips around Ireland, giving me the opportunity to explore different parts of the country and make unforgettable memories along the way. Overall, Connect-123 made my time in Ireland an amazing experience both professionally and personally.

I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.

I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️

I participated in the Marine and coastal conservation program in Zanzibar. I had the best time ever but before I even left Australia IVHQ helped make the process of application and preparation seamless and efficient. They provided all the information I could have possibly needed to prepare me for what I would arrive to once I got to Zanzibar. The program itself was incredible. So many activities to choose from to keep you busy. The staff were incredible. So friendly, super organised and welcoming. Not only did we participate in activities to help the local community but the staff also ensured we had time to socialise and get to know all the other volunteers. I absolutely loved my time and would 100% go back.

The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.

My internship has been the best experience I could have ever asked for. My co-workers are what made my time there so memorable. Connect-123 made the entire process smooth and easy, especially Antonella and Xena. They were both so kind, supportive, and helpful every step of the way. I’m so grateful I got to meet my program group, it was truly an amazing experience!

The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.

Volunteering with Anointed Vessels Christian School was a truly rewarding experience. As a journalist, I had the opportunity to mentor and train the school's media team on effective storytelling, photography, videography, interviewing, and content creation. It was encouraging to see their passion for sharing the inspiring stories of the children and the impact the school is making in the community. Beyond the media training, I was touched by the dedication of the staff and the joy of the students. The school provides quality education, care, and hope to orphaned and vulnerable children on Mfangano Island. I appreciated being able to contribute my professional skills to strengthen their communication efforts so that more people around the world can learn about their mission. I highly recommend Anointed Vessels Christian School to anyone looking for a meaningful volunteer opportunity where their skills can make a lasting difference. The experience was inspiring, welcoming, and deeply fulfilling

Volunteering at Anointed Vessels Christian School was one of the most meaningful experiences have had. During my visit, our team had the privilege of washing the students' feet, mentoring them, donating school shoes, and sharing meal together. These moments allowed us to connect with the children on a personal level and demonstrate Christ's love through practical service. I was inspired by the dedication of the school' leadership who work tirelessly to provide quality education, nutritious meals, and hope to orphaned children on Mfangano Island. The children were joyful, respectful, eager to learn despite many challenges they face. This experience reminded me that even simple acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. I highly recommend Anointed Vessels Christian Schoolto anyone looking for a genuine volunteer opportunity where they can make a real difference while learning about the local community and culture.

Coming to Barcelona with Connect 123 was one of the best decisions I've made. They were incredibly helpful in helping find me an internship I felt comfortable and confident in and always very communicative. The housing they provided was amazing, and in a great location. Barcelona is now one of my favorite cities

As my time in Ireland comes to a close, I want to thank Connect-123 for partnering with Bucknell University to provide students like me with an opportunity like this. As an undergraduate, it can often feel stressful trying to gain relevant work experience while preparing for your future career. Thanks to Connect-123, I was placed with a company in a field aligned with my career goals, allowing me to grow professionally while exploring a new part of the world. This experience has given me valuable workplace experience, unforgettable memories, and a greater appreciation for living and working abroad. Thank you for making it possible!

This experience has been nothing short of incredible. I will forever be grateful for this opportunity. My internship could not have been a more perfect match. I have gained not only new skills but also a new perspective as well. Outside of the internship, exploring this beautiful city has been so fun. Carla, the program coordinator, is one of the most amazing people I have ever had the privilege of meeting. She planned the most fun activities for our group and was truly invested in our well-being!

Following this program was a unique experience that I will never forget. I thought it gave a great balance of working at my internship, meeting new people, and exploring the new country. The opportunities each weekend gave great insights and experiences to explore outside of where we were staying and i highly recommend going to each one.

Coming from the busy city of London, this was a fantastic experience to open my mind, get to know a festinating culture while being able to reach out to people in need and support this honest, small charity led by Ivan. I have been able to learn a lot about the food, the way of living and about the people in Uganda thanks to BID. I was able to learn how to make bricks for the organization, plant vegetables for food supply and visit villages where vulnerable people are helped and women are empowered thanks to BID Uganda.

My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!

IVHQ are extremely supportive and trustworthy. They provide a very informative program guide and checklist which ensures you have everything you need! They do constant check ins and always provide support. The information shared is very real and it tells you exactly what to expect- there are no surprises! A member of the team collects you from the airport and ensures you are settled in- you also have an orientation day where you get to meet all of the managers and you know exactly who to go to for different enquires! The accommodation & food provided is of very good standard for the price. There is always someone available for help at night. I did my program in Tanzania- I did teaching. It was amazing! I learned so much from it. There was so much to do including the Safari, sunset hike, women’s outreach, waterfall, Moshi weekend, etc. all of these excursions were organised through IVHQ and I felt extremely supported on them all. If you are considering volunteering with IVHQ, do it! Don't hold back- you won’t regret it✨