Women's Education Volunteer Project in Nepal - Kathmandu

I experienced the guidance and preparation resources very well organised. At each stage of the process I was given the relevant and important information I needed, just in time. I'd like to point out the accessibility and usability of the platform, which made it very easy to finish the preparation process and submit all important information. Thank you for that great support! The local team was incredibly kind and always provided helpful information when needed.

I was able to build a connection with the women in a short time, also with support from the center manager. Seeing their motivation and eagerness to learn more every day was incredibly rewarding, and I feel confident that I made at least some positive impact.

I was placed with a very kind and welcoming host family who made my stay truly enjoyable. They went above and beyond to make me feel at home, providing two freshly prepared and incredibly delicious meals each day. Each morning, I was even served coffee, which was such a thoughtful touch. One of the most memorable experiences was thanks to my host brother. Since he works for the National Examination Board of Nepal, he invited me to a teaching conference, where I had the unique chance to share some insights about the Swiss Vocational Education system in an informal presentation. This amazing experience allowed me to engage with local teachers, exchange ideas about technical education, and learn more about the Nepali educational context. It was a very inspiring and rewarding experience, and I felt deeply honored to be included in such a meaningful event. Overall, my accommodation exceeded my expectations, and the warmth and generosity of my host family made my experience unforgettable.

I gained so much from this experience, both personally and professionally. I had the opportunity to connect with incredible people, immerse myself in a new culture, and make a meaningful contribution to a cause I deeply care about. I developed and strenghtened valuable skills, such as adaptability, cross-cultural communication and teaching techniques. Perhaps most importantly, I gained a deeper understanding of the power of education and how small efforts can create a significant impact.

My advice to anyone feeling hesitant is simple: Go for it! It’s natural to feel unsure at first, especially when stepping out of your comfort zone. But this program is incredibly well-organized and supportive. You’ll be welcomed into a warm and inclusive local and international community, and the experience will challenge you in the best ways while leaving you with lifelong memories. You won’t regret it!

There was a lot of useful information provided by the website, and support from my IVHQ Program Manager to help prepare for the trip. It was very helpful and comforting to have that support there. The local team in Nepal were more than welcoming and helpful. I felt like I could go to them with any concerns, questions or just general advice on what to do/visit while in Nepal.

Because of IVHQ and this programme, Nepal is now my most favourite country I've ever visited! There were several highlights during my time volunteering but the top would be meeting the most amazing, like-minded and interesting people. From the fellow volunteers who I was with, to my host family and the ladies I had the privilege of teaching, each and everyone of them brought a positive light and heightened my experience.

The women I taught during my 4 weeks of volunteering were the most funny, passionate and sweet ladies. Seeing them so eager to learn and always smiling when coming to class, made me feel like I truly was doing something important.

Going solo, which most of the volunteers in my group did, was terrifying at first but with the support of the local team and having such a lovely volunteer group, I didn't even have time to think about how I was here 'alone' because truthfully I never was! Mieke, who I volunteered with and shared a room with at our homestay, and I grew very close. We would volunteer together during the day, then go out and explore Kathmandu during the evening. We even ended up going to Pokhara together! Our volunteer group also got together during the weekend to bus down to Chitwan and do the safari tour together - it was great fun and I'm so happy to know I have friends from all over the world now!

I would suggest to anyone thinking about joining this programme to just do it - and the longer you can volunteer, the better! You will truly create special bonds with people you meet here, Nepal is so magical!

The whole program I felt so safe from the second I landed in Nepal. This was the biggest point I was worried about as I was visiting Asia for the first time. I was so proud of myself that I could get in front of a class of adults and teach confidently. I have never taught before so this was amazing. Our host family couldn't have been better. They were so kind and welcoming and made us feel part of the family and always available. The homestay was safe and clean.

I gained so much confidence from this program. It was the best experience plus we really got to see the country including visiting Chitwan national park and going on a safari (organised by IVHQ) and visiting Pokhara (which although wasn't organised by IVHQ, they were very helpful with recommendations). The whole program exceeded my expectations and I would recommend it to anyone. I met so many wonderful people and got really immersed in the culture.

I’ve learnt to be adaptable. The program has reinforced the values of kindness and caring. It is very humbling to see people who are working very hard to improve their education, and to support their family, yet are so kind, engaging and full of laughter. Advice; keep your mind & heart open & immerse yourself in it.

It was a shocking and deeply rewarding experience. I felt that I learned a lot from the ladies whom I was teaching and from Nepal. I feel that this experience has been deeply transformative for me.

I got this wonderful opportunity from my university’s go global website which I am very grateful for. The team is awesome and their efforts and support is genuine and remarkable. I did learn and got the chance to help others learn in my volunteering journey. I still remember those happy faces and funny moments I have shared with the lovely ladies. As I am a Nepali citizen, I got to meet new people from volunteering backgrounds which has left a remarkable impact from my experience. After my journey I went to meet my schools head teacher and he was so impressed with the platforms provided by IVHQ. Apart from this, I will definitely advise my friends and family to try and join this program.