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Often referred to as "The world in one country" South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, mystery and adventure.

Often referred to as "The world in one country" South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, mystery and adventure.

Although this expression alludes to the varying climatic conditions, vegetation and the abundance of animals, it can also be used to describe the diversity of cultures, languages and religions, and the extremes of first world development next to third world difficulties. Since 1994, which marked the end of the Apartheid era, it has been possible to visit South Africa. Not only to visit, but also to become part of a nation once divided, now standing side by side. Working in South Africa gives the applicant first hand knowledge of a new nation that has learnt to overcome discrimination and that has moved towards progress and development, becoming the new economic power hub of Africa.

EIL's partner has created the opportunity for people from abroad to do voluntary community work while in South Africa. The programme runs all year round and includes a comprehensive 7-day orientation upon arrival and pre-placement for a 2-month period within a local community. Participants then have an additional three weeks to explore South Africa .

By volunteering your time, skills and love for people, you can make a difference in the lives of people and contribute to the welfare of society.

Volunteers may choose to work in Environmental, Educational, Social, Health and Tourism Development projects. While volunteering, participants stay within the local community in host family accommodation and experience 'real life' in this ever-changing country.

Environmental Development Projects - Many old nature reserves are being redeveloped and re-launched. Archaeological excavation sites are being displayed to study evolution and the cradle of mankind. Alien vegetation is being cleared to make way for the rich diversity of indigenous plant species to grow and flourish.

Tourism - Another important area of development is that of tourism. Tourism is the great source for local economic development in certain parts of the country, for without it, there would be no funds for the construction of necessary schools, hospitals and homes. Help build up tourism by lending a hand in the building of museums or by helping with the restoration of old churches and town halls in historic little towns. There are also projects bringing tourism to rural villages and local communities.

Education - There are several schools in and around Cape Town where volunteers are desperately needed to ‘roll up their sleeves' and interact with the children, assist in teaching basic English, coaching sports or even help to create and maintain school gardens. Schools, such as the Ikaya and Liefdespoorrt are one of many projects struggling to provide better education for township children. The world-renowned American opera singer Simon Estes founded the Simon Estes School of Music in Lansdowne, especially to accommodate musically talented students from underprivileged backgrounds.

Social Welfare - There are various social projects where a lot of help is needed, these include non-profit organisations that seek to readdress the damages of Apartheid and support the budding South African democracy. These organisations train community members to assume leadership roles, and volunteers are now being placed within these projects. Many hospitals and clinics are also desperate for the help of volunteers in centres around Cape Town.

On completion of the project, the volunteer is taken back to Cape Town, where accommodation is arranged for one night before either flying back home or leave to do an independent tour through the rest of South Africa.

Requirements

18+