Volunteer in Tanzania

I gained far more from the experience than I expected. Spending time in Tanzania pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best possible way and I became more confident, adaptable, and appreciative of different cultures and ways of life. The connections I made with local people and the rest of the group were genuinely meaningful, and seeing the impact of even small contributions was incredibly rewarding. It also gave me a new perspective on global issues and made me more grateful for everyday things I usually take for granted.

For anyone feeling hesitant about joining the program, I’d say it’s completely normal to feel nervous before doing something unfamiliar, especially if it involves travelling far from home. But that uncertainty is usually where the biggest personal growth happens. You do not need to be “super confident” or experienced to take part, you just need to be open-minded and willing to get involved. The experience stays with you long after you return home, and most people end up wishing they had worried less beforehand and embraced it sooner.

The experience was one of the best I've had in my life! Being able to live with the Massai and getting to learn their culture was amazing. They are warm welcoming people and I felt safe the whole time there.

Although I had initially applied for IVHQ out of curiosity and because it was the most affordable program I found, I fully pursued this opportunity because of how organized and trusted the program was. Especially since it was my first time travelling that far from home. The whole team was excellent from start to end and made me always feel safe.

My orientation provided all the information I needed to feel comfortable and I felt safe during my whole stay in Arusha. Plus the cooking is amazingggg. Their food is so good.

I gained amazing friends with similars perspective about giving to others. I have never been to Africa before and I learned so so much about their culture! I got to see the richness of their land and people. If someone is hesitant I would say do it! You will gain so much from this experience. The team is so supportive and flexible with everything that you won't feel alone and they walk with you at every step of the process.

Volunteering through this program has genuinely been one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I gained so much more than I expected, not just practical experience, but perspective, gratitude, resilience, and a deeper understanding of community.

Working alongside the local teachers and meeting the children completely shifted the way I see the world. It reminded me how powerful connection, love, and education really are. Despite limited resources, the joy, generosity, and strength within the community were incredible. I learned that meaningful impact isn’t about doing something huge, it’s about showing up consistently, listening, and being willing to learn.

I also gained confidence in myself. Being placed in an unfamiliar environment pushed me outside of my comfort zone in the best way. It strengthened my adaptability, cultural awareness, and ability to communicate across language barriers. I left with lifelong friendships, both with fellow volunteers and the local community, and a renewed sense of purpose in the work I want to pursue in health and community settings.

To anyone who feels hesitant about joining, it’s completely normal to feel nervous. I did too. But growth happens in those moments. If you are open-minded, willing to be flexible, and ready to learn, this program will give you more than you could imagine. It’s not always easy, but it is deeply meaningful. I would do it again in a heartbeat.