We have hosted volunteers for 12 years who have helped us build and develop our projects to what they are today. Our ethos is to provide and encourage ethical volunteering and internships to respectfully work with and educate our community but also learn from our community too.

Volunteers have the option to stay at our small independent non profit community-based lodge with lush grounds on the shores of Lake Malawi. The lodge is the hub that has helped support projects both on the grounds and around the local area in Nkhata Bay.

We are working on a range of projects which are diverse, and all ongoing thanks to the support of both our community and volunteers. The projects range from educational, environmental, social and health and we have built and developed nursery and primary schools, an IT and information centre, community radio station, a disability centre and run HIV nutrition and support groups, women's groups and permaculture projects in 22 schools and counting! We are looking to branch out and find volunteers and interns to join us with developing and progressing these projects further, while having the opportunity to stay within a vibrant community to experience the beautiful nature of the Malawian culture in lake side accommodation.

We are seeking adaptable, confident people with initiative and commitment to take the projects to the next level, bring new fresh ideas and inspiration and continue to strive to make the projects sustainable and beneficial to the environment and people involved. The interns and volunteers in turn will receive support from the managers and the community throughout and gain valuable experience both culturally and professionally.

The non-profit lodge offers all of the amenities necessary to make all volunteers as comfortable as possible during their stay and is charged at the lowest rate possible to provide an affordable opportunity while still supporting jobs and the day to day running of the lodge.

Please see some information on some of our projects below:

Malawi Schools Permaculture Clubs
Our permaculture internship and voluntary positions offer the opportunity to gain practical experience in the application of permaculture in a development context. Volunteers will be part of a small team providing permaculture training to teachers in a rural setting and have a hand in the further development of the program. They will have the opportunity to put theoretical knowledge into practice, to gain a thorough understanding of the grassroots permaculture projects, and to contribute to a very worthwhile cause that is active in 22 schools and counting.

Kandoli FM Community Radio Station
Kandoli FM is a true community radio station with broad support from the District Assembly, the main chiefs in the area, and many community stakeholders. This project has seen some great progress in the last 24 months and now has a permanent presence at our building in Nkhata Bay town center, a full-time media manager, and soon (all going to plan) a broadcasting license. This is a very exciting opportunity for volunteers looking to build on their experience in journalism, media, and advertising. Volunteers will also assist with training, fundraising and/or business sponsorship.

Stepping Stones Primary School
Stepping Stones is a primary school located just outside of Nkhata Bay, and provides rigorous academic training and culturally responsive programming. At the school non-fee paying children from disadvantaged circumstances learn alongside more economically fee-paying privileged peers, international volunteers, and talented Malawian teachers. The non-fee paying places are based on need and are selected with the help of local chiefs. The school is expanding due to its success and is in need of additional support. Volunteers will help the teachers improve and develop the curriculum, help with English practice, and fill the role of teaching assistants.

The Uje Umampha! (Be Well!) Program
This project provides vital support for people living with HIV. It has been running for a number of years and the purpose is to establish a peer support group, to give education and counseling. Where possible the group also provides business opportunities that generate income for the group to be sustainable and support others living in the community. There is a comprehensive written program for volunteers to deliver to the group over 10 sessions. This is a great opportunity for volunteers who want to have a big impact on people’s lives and who have a keen interest in health, sustainable business and development.

And more....!

We also have many educational projects that could be well suited to Volunteers wanting to focus on this field such as an on-site youth club, nursery schools, and a disability skill-sharing center. All of which benefit greatly when volunteers work with the local staff and inject new ideas and new leases of life!