Volunteer Programs in Zanzibar, Tanzania

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Volunteering with Familia Moja Day Care and Pre-School in Zanzibar was one of the most rewarding and eye-opening experiences of my life. For three months, I worked alongside dedicated local teachers supporting children aged 2–6 in both play-based learning and early education. Each day brought something new; from teaching English and creative activities to helping develop the children’s confidence and curiosity through games, music, and dance. The sense of community at Familia Moja was truly special. Despite limited resources, the staff’s warmth and passion created an environment full of laughter, learning, and love. Chichi, Wanu, and Fatima are amazing! So patient, kind, and a real credit to the school- all beautifully coordinated by the lovely Tim, whose support and organisation made everything run so smoothly. And of course Rose and Mama Aneti! Beyond the classroom, the experience allowed me to immerse myself in Zanzibar’s vibrant culture, connect with local families, and gain a deeper understanding of education in developing communities. My time at Familia Moja strengthened my communication skills, adaptability, and appreciation for cultural exchange, lessons I’ll carry with me for life. I would highly recommend volunteering with Familia Moja to anyone who wants to make a genuine difference while learning from an incredible community of teachers and children.

A beautifully run school by true professionals. Children are impeccably behaved with superior knowledge. A caring and compassionate team. I feel so lucky to have been a part of this. Fantastic experience.

We spent many days with Chichi and her team at the school. The newly built school was impeccably clean, the children were happy, well fed and receiving top quality education. We spent time with the children and teachers and observed a happy family experience. One Family it really is.

I spent 2 weeks volunteering with a friend at the Familia Moja Nursery and Day Care school in Zanzibar, and it definitely was one of the most rewarding and life-changing experiences I´ve ever had. From the very first day, we were warmly welcomed by the lovely Tim and Chichi, who made us really feel at home despite being far away! On the first day of school, the teachers of the school welcomed us and we met all of the children, who bonded with us really quickly and had a very positive energy and an inspiring motivation to learn new things everyday! My role involved helping the children and the teachers during their lessons, supporting classroom activities, playing with the children and helping to prepare their meals. Moreover, I had the opportunity to explore the beautiful island of Zanzibar in my free time and immerse myself in the local culture. As a young girl I felt very safe and the local people were very friendly. The Foundation is located near Paje, where there are a lot of restaurants, shops and a breathtaking beach. Overall, I couldn't be more thankful for my time volunteering in Zanzibar. I left with many cherished memories and a strong desire to return in the future! I absolutely recommend this experience.

From the day I arrived at the Foundation to the day I went back home, I could not feel more at home. Everyone treated me like one of their own family members (specially Tim and Chichi, the owners of the foundation). I’m beyond grateful to have had the opportunity to work so closely with these children who welcomed me at school, day by day, with a smile on their faces. Apart from that, it’s important to highlight the conditions of the school, as well as the dormitory. I truly recommend embarking on this little adventure with Familia Moja, a genuine, loyal and transparent organization with really good values.

I can highly recommend this organization! I’ve known the founders for years and I keep coming back to volunteer with them. Everything is very well organized. Chichi, the head teacher, is strict enough to make sure the children really learn, but at the same time she is warm, loving, funny, and teaches every single day with full energy and dedication. You can clearly see how much she loves her profession. The children are absolutely adorable and always so excited to welcome new volunteers. Tim takes care of all the organization around the school and is also deeply committed, putting his whole heart into it. Both of them dedicate themselves completely to helping children who grow up in very poor circumstances, giving them a much better start in life. The school grounds are always clean, which is something the children are taught early on, and the classrooms are decorated with great love and attention to detail. The volunteer rooms are spacious, clean, with private bathrooms and even a fan – you have everything you need. The kitchen is also very clean and well equipped. I have been supporting them for years and will continue to do so because I truly believe they are doing a fantastic job! Every time I’m there, I feel completely at home – they have become like a second family to me in Africa. They are open, kind, communicative, and always ready to help with anything you might need. They also run their own sandwich shop in Paje to support the school financially, and they are doing a great job there as well – every sandwich I tried was delicious. All in all, it’s a wonderful place to volunteer, especially since it’s based in beautiful Zanzibar. I can promise you will have an amazing experience if you decide to visit Familia Moja. I am deeply grateful to both of them for their important and impactful work, which helps brighten the future of so many children. With love from Switzerland, Sana ✌️

I was at Familia Moja for three weeks and it was just fabulous. Had a great time and Chi Chi and Tim are great hosts. Do not hesitate to ask if you need something they will arrange it for you. Also for trips to see the island. The accommodation for volunteers is very nice! I can really recommend the experience, whether you have teaching experience or related education or not. There is always something that can be done. I found it very fulfilling and was very impressed by what they had set up in only two years. The kids are so much fun also.

I am beyond grateful for my 1-month volunteer experience with African Impact in Cape Town. From the moment I arrived, the warmth and professionalism of the team made it unforgettable. When I first arrived at the airport, Thulani, the program manager, was already waiting, and ready to give us an engaging introduction to the history and scenery of Cape Town. After a 20+ min drive we arrived at The Lenox hostel. The Lenox became my home for the month, and the staff made sure it felt that way. Everyone was very kind and welcoming at all time. I got a bunk bed in a shared room with four amazing fellow volunteers from different countries. The room was very spacious and comfortable. The facilities were bright and welcoming, with breathtaking views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain from the lounge balcony. I joined the Early Education program, which I highly recommend if you love working with children and creating engaging learning experiences. Through this program I worked with four different nonprofits located in Khayelitsha, their work is centered around fostering children and youth development. Our schedule was almost the same every day; breakfast with all the volunteers, then going out to support an org. in the morning, coming back to the Lenox for lunch (amazing fresh and delicious food by the way) and then going back to support another org. in the afternoon. Our day concluded around 5 pm, after documenting our experiences, and preparing for the next day. Then dinner time, a great time to get to know the other volunteers and share stories. The rest of the afternoon was free time for us to unwind and enjoy visiting places around Cape Town or do a sightseeing activity planned by the staff. The most rewarding part was getting to work directly with nonprofits like Ikasi Soccer School and foster care homes like Fikelele. My favorite task while on project was to sing and play with the kids. Witnessing the impact of our efforts and the joy on the children’s faces are core memories from this experience. I don’t think I can put into words how fulfilling this experience was for me. This experience taught me so much about collaboration, creativity, and the joy of giving back. Volunteering with African Impact was life changing. It’s a core memory filled with friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a difference while exploring the vibrant culture of Cape Town.

African Impact responded to this reviewDecember 30, 2024

Love your video Maria! Really captures the essence of volunteering with us in Cape Town :)

the teaching program is a 10/10 program, you get to fully know the place you stay in by doing lots of activities and getting to know the people all around the zone. Staff tries their best in making your stay as comfortable as possible and everyone is so friendly. There are a lot of chances to make friends and get to know the people you work with and the local teachers are really friendly. Also zanzibar is one of the best places i’ve ever seen, with lots of activities to do.

The Zanzibar African Impact Dolphin & Marine Conservation Project was an opportunity to not only monitor dolphins, boat drivers and tourist, but to interact with the local people. We also monitor the local Fish Market, worked at the Zala Park Community Garden, monitored the coral reefs and had a weekly dinner in the Community.

This has been an amazing experience. Everyday was filled with amazing experiences, everyone I have met on the project has been so friendly and welcoming. Nellie, Abbas, Alberto and Ani are amazing. I honestly wish I could stay longer, but I definitely want to come back.

Overall my time in Zanzibar has been absolutely incredible, the experiences I have had the opportunity to enjoy has really been a blessing and I’m so thankful for all the people involved. I have learnt so much about the island and about myself and how I carry myself from day to day. I will value my time here so much and take back all my amazing lessons which will help me to appreciate everything we have at home. Overall this time has been amazing the location was incredible, the support from the staff was amazing and the hospitality was unbeatable

Staying in Zanzibar doing this volunteering was a dream come true, since I had always wanted to try working with children. It’s a great experience for all ages and types of persons. I have met amazing people from all over the world and I am really greatful to have been able to do this with african impact.

My overall experience was amazing at African Impact, it was my first solo travel and I was so nervous, since the moment I came I was welcomed instantly and very quickly became comfortable and got along with all the staff and volunteers. Life changing experience, so happy I chose African impact and would recommend it anyone. A massive thank you for the best experience, I will miss this place very much and will be returning in the future.

The African Impact team in Zanzibar is top-notch. Everyone is passionate about the work they are doing, extremely well-organized and engaged with the local community in Jambiani and Kizimkazi. The volunteers are involved and busy with a variety of activities during the week and it’s been great to have weekends off to explore other parts of the island. Highly recommend!

Volunteering in Zanzibar as an English teacher was an incredible experience. I found students who were motivated and eager to learn, and the welcome from the community was extraordinary. African Impact has done an excellent job providing support and resources to make our contribution meaningful. An experience that I recommend to anyone who wants to make a difference and discover a new culture!

The day to day activity’s were amazing. Dolphins just never got boring however some stuff did get repetitive. The food was very nice and cultural however the same after a week. Base camp was nice and homely with a pool, but the rooms itself being different to my expectations

i had the possibility to spend three amazing weeks in Zanzibar with African Impact. I participated in the marine conservation program and i was really satisfied with the activities proposed, even if at the end of the three weeks a i could start to feel the tiredness growing. Our coordinator Nellie is super competent in her work and is an excellent point of reference. The time spent at the base was completely satisfied, the food was tasty and the accommodation are modest but completely fine. The coordinators are always friendly and helpful.

I am speechless, this trip has been a once in a life time experience and opportunity, the people I have met and the things I have learnt will stay with me forever and I am extremely grateful to African impact and all the people of Zanzibar for such amazing trip!