Education Volunteering in Kerala, India

I had an incredibly rewarding experience volunteering in childcare in Delhi, India. From the very beginning, the organisation was well-structured, supportive, and genuinely committed to making a positive impact on the local community. The placement allowed me to work closely with children in a safe and nurturing environment, where I was involved in daily activities such as assisting with learning, playtime, and providing general care. It was both challenging and fulfilling, and it helped me develop important skills such as patience, adaptability, communication, and cultural awareness. The house coordinators and caregivers were absolutely wonderful. They were kind, attentive, and always made me feel welcome and supported, creating a warm and comfortable home environment throughout my stay. The local team and coordinators were always available to offer guidance, which made the overall experience even more meaningful. Being immersed in Indian culture, particularly in a city as vibrant and diverse as Delhi, was unforgettable and broadened my perspective both personally and professionally. I would highly recommend this childcare volunteer programme to anyone looking to make a real difference while gaining valuable hands-on experience and cultural exposure.

Through this fellowship, I've been able to work on UNICEF and UNESCO environmental education training and capacity-building projects. While the project placements vary, my experience has been one that could not have happened any other way, as an American citizen figuring out how to work and live in India. The entire AIF team is so supportive, and while I would say the experience of living and working in India is not for the faint of heart, this is the best way I can find for anyone to do that, and to come away with incredible professional growth and experience to show for it. I highly recommend this program to anyone who is interested in the development sector but only those who are ready for a challenge.

I joined the AIF BIF fellowship as the class of 2023-24. Sitting through a round of online applications and rounds of interview was one filled with doubt, but extremely satisfying. From the very first step, from the interview, candidates are provided help, for example, the website and the work of the fellows gives a fantastic picture of what the fellowship will be like. The team is also extremely helpful and prompt to respond to mails as well. Although I do not have as much experience in the development sector, I was provided this opportunity to serve with an NGO whose work I really liked. My host organization is very supportive as well. The team always makes sure there is ample support and resources that fellows have for learning during their fellowship and contribute to their projects. The regular check-ins, the training and orientation provided before starting our projects help us transition well into our host sites. Health insurance, other resources related to health and safety- the team provides information about everything, contacts and support system that you can reach out to. The team really makes sure that you learn and contribute to your best in the fellowship. My motivation has only increased to serve in the development sector after joining the fellowship, and it is an experience of a lifetime. I will wholeheartedly recommend this fellowship to anyone who wishes to work in the development sector.

Banyan Impact Fellowship is a bridge to understand the development sector in India. As a fellow one works with NGOs/NPOs under the themes of livelihood, education, public health and administration. Such an exposure to the development sector gives fellows a chance to not just complete their project but build a community around it. The fellowship team and the strong bond between the fellows is the best experience one could ever take from their abroad experience.

Joining the American India Foundation Banyan Impact Fellowship was a pivotal decision that has undeniably been life-altering in many ways. The nine-month experience was not only enriching but also instrumental in shaping the person I am today, providing unparalleled learning opportunities. The connections I made during this journey continue to be a source of learning, and personal growth. I joined my Host Organisation as a fellow and gladly continue to work with something that I feel so close to and passionate about. Reflecting on my journey, I entered the fellowship lacking grassroots experience, however, this period has exceeded my expectations, not only altering my perspective but also instilling in me the confidence to believe in myself, embrace uncertainty, and step out of my comfort zone.

I will highly recommend to individuals you really have interest or passion to work in a development sector. This 10 months journey will help you to shape your career. I have done quite a lot fellowship in India but AIF will be top of all.

Being part of the AIF Banyan Impact Fellowship in Auroville has been a truly enriching experience for me over the past four months. I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the host organization, Social Entrepreneurship Association, that aligns with my values and focuses on regenerative travel, education, fair trade, and bioregion development projects. The organization's commitment to a telos-driven approach has been a revelation for me.The fellowship has not just been about work; it's been a holistic journey of personal growth and learning. Engaging in projects that promote regenerative travel, education, fair trade, and bioregion development has opened my eyes to the positive impact one can have on society. While I may not fully comprehend the extent of the change I'm bringing to the community, I am acutely aware of the significant transformation within myself. The fellowship has been a catalyst for change in my perspective, particularly regarding travel. Taking the resolution of flightless travel this year was a direct result of the realizations and insights gained during my time with the host organization. The emphasis on sustainable practices and regenerative approaches has left an indelible mark on my consciousness. Expressing the depth of this transformation is a challenge, as words seem inadequate. However, I can confidently say that the fellowship has been a turning point in my life. The exposure to meaningful projects, the immersive experience in Auroville, and the ethos of the organization have collectively shaped me into a more conscious and responsible individual. In conclusion, my AIF Banyan Impact Fellowship in Auroville has been more than just a professional experience – it has been a journey of self-discovery and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. I am grateful for the lessons learned, the relationships formed, and the positive changes set in motion, both within and around me.

My IVHQ Program Maanger was amazing providing all information and answering all my extra questions and concerns! She was really helpful. The local team was always available to suggest activities and flexible with any kind of need during my stay at the accommodation. It was the strongest experience I have ever had. I feel like a newborn person. I recommend this experience to anyone who has a sensibility and empathy to feel like there is a place for us in this world. I am very grateful.

Prior to my arrival, the information was very well explained and if there were any concerns, emails were very quickly replied to. The local team were amazing, so friendly and welcoming. Always up for a laugh! I was so hesitant, especially as I was flying across the world on my own, but it’s the best experience I’ve ever had and has definitely changed me as a person. This has given me so much more confidence and won’t ever take anything for granted.

Thank you so much to all of you! You made me feel at home right from the start and helped me turn my time in India into unforgettable memories. You are the kindest people I have ever met. I enjoyed every single day and wI will keep you in my heart. Lots of love! - Nadine

I am delighted to e my review for IVHQ Delhi, India. I found IVHQ India one of the best in all my comparison rates and among other volunteering programs I did before and I searched and experienced. I feel happy writing my personal review about IVHQ India. I found IVHQ one of the most affordable platform and one of the best till now. The IVHQ team and its program at Delhi have been the best from the first day of my volunteering work till the end. The Food they provide is outstanding, the accommodation was very good, the facility was outstanding, and the community program there in IVHQ Delhi India is structured so well and professionally that one not only do his/her best volunteering work, but also the best experience he/she can get from. I am sometimes speechless to praise Mr. Ananta Kumar the Head of IVHQ Delhi India, Ms. Soumita Halder the kindest person, Mr. Pawan, Mr. Ragu the Cook, who are such a nice and kind team for all volunteers. I wish everyone join IVHQ, specially IVHQ who wish to do volunteering work in India, I prefer they should choose IVHQ Delhi India since I heartily say the program and team there are second to none.

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewMarch 25, 2019

Hi Ahmad, thanks for your review and providing an insightful overview of what future volunteers can expect on the program! It sounds like you truly had an incredible experience in India and were well looked after by the team! Thanks for being a great IVHQ volunteer and we would love to have you back in the future! Samantha - IVHQ Program Manager.

Thank you for everything, your generous hospitality, fun sense of humor and your selflessness. I had a great experience here. You are doing great things in this world keep it up. You are an inspiration.

I appreciated the availability of Volunteering Journeys staff during my stay in Cochin. They were very supportive both at school with children, and at home for all our needs and requests. I also liked yoga at Shanti Yoga center. It was one of the most enriching experiences of my life. I would recommend to clean the room (at least sweep it and clean the toilet) at mid-week since it god very dirty. If this is not possible, please provide tools for volunteers to self clean the room. I would also recommend to give more detailed information about teaching program before departure, so that volunteers can already prepare material (e.g.: crafts, colours, plays, etc).

my experience in Delhi, India with IVHQ was phenomenal. The program is very well planned, and the staff are at your every call when committing to the program. They locals who work with IVHQ in india were very welcoming, and made you feel at home. The childcare program itself was great, I obtained a lot of wisdom just by being with the children. I will definitely sign up with IVHQ on my next volunteering journey.

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] responded to this reviewJuly 08, 2015

Hi Jacqueline, It’s great to hear from you. We are so glad to hear you had such a positive experience volunteering with IVHQ and our local team in Delhi. Thanks for being an IVHQer!