General Info
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN FROM DOING THIS PROJECT:
► An exciting, never-to-be-forgotten adventure into Africa.
► Good, practical work experience that will stand you in good stead in your career.
► You'll learn a lot from experts in your field about how they work in a cultural environment that's different to what you're used to.
► New skills, more confidence, a greater understanding of a different culture, invaluable personal and professional development.
► An entry on your CV or résumé that will put you head and shoulders above most others in the job market
► And best of all ... an unforgettable experience!
PROJECT OVERVIEW:
It is difficult to be specific about the day-to-day work you will do because work is so varied and spread across many areas. The hospital is very busy with a multitude of duties and responsibilities, so you will probably be worked very hard in most areas!
Your work may take you into all departments, e.g. surgery, burns unit, ICU, Physiotherapy, X-ray and even the mortuary to name just a few. However, if you're not qualified, you won't be allowed into operating theatres. The type of work you will be allocated will depend to an extent on your own abilities and capabilities, which is understandable given that you will be dealing with patient health and safety.
You'll be given basic and general on-the-job training by your supervisor, and further jobs should become available for those with medical experience. Your hours may vary insofar as they will be subject to shift rotas, but your usual hours will be from 9-5 Monday to Friday. However, you may sometimes work evenings or nights, sometimes over weekends, but you will have time off on other days instead. Most of your work will entail assisting the local doctors and nurses with their daily rounds, making medical notes and updating records. You'll also be asked to help with computer entries, as well as helping to clean equipment and various areas within the hospital.
ACCOMMODATION:
Your accommodation will vary, depending on which school you're placed in. We have different types of accommodation, but you will most likely live with a local family. Volunteers and family members frequently become very good friends and even stay in touch once the volunteers have left the country. Living with a family also gives you the opportunity to experience the true African experience from the inside and not just as a "tourist" on the surface of the country.
"My family were fantastic and went beyond their duties to make me welcome. Njeri [Travellers' Mombasa Organiser] was always helpful should I need anything." Caroline Chadwick
LOCATION: MOMBASA:
Mombasa is an exciting city and with lots to see and do. A spectacular coral reef runs for 480 km along the palm-fringed coastline. The waters below are filled with marine life, while up above a huge diversity of birdlife occupies the mangrove forests or overhanging cliffs. The beaches of Kenya have become one of the world's great playgrounds, with plenty of opportunities for water sports or simply sunbathing. The sun shines all year round and the diversity of activities is unequalled.
Another factor that makes Mombasa a wonderful place to visit is the exciting nightlife. There are many nightclubs situated along the North and South Coasts of the town, all of which have different themes that cater to different crowds. Many hotels also have their own entertainment events. In the heart of the town is where most hospitals, businesses, banks, shops and markets are situated.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES YOU CAN DO WHILE ON THIS PROJECT:
► 1-WEEK SWAHILI LANGUAGE COURSE: Start your time in Kenya with An optional 1-week language course that will intensify your Kenyan adventure!
► EXPLORING THE COUNTRY: There are many beautiful beaches in the region that you can go to during the weekends. You're within fairly easy reach of some of the world's most famous Game Reserves, like the Masai Mara with its huge populations of Big Five animals. There are also loads of tourist sights to see as well as cultural activities. African towns and villages are fascinating and so different to what we're used to in the Western world.
This project can also be combined with any of our other projects in Kenya, or you can venture further afield into Zambia and Zimbabwe to take part in one of our fascinating projects there.
WHAT TO DO NEXT:
Talk to us - We're there to help you. Most of our team are ex Travellers volunteers and are ideally qualified to offer advice and guidance because they know what you're looking for. They'll help you find your perfect project - and then make it all happen!
If you’d like more information about this or any of our projects, please email or call us! If you’d like to apply for this project, please go to our website and complete the application form. As soon as we receive it, we’ll liaise with you and then start making your travel adventure happen.
It’s as easy as that.
