International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

My adventure with ivhq was amazing! It is the first time that I travel as a solo female traveler. I encountered a lot of stress. But before the program starts you are already very well supported! I could always ask Marianne questions and I could always call her if I was stressed or needed reassurance. Also during my stay in Tanzania I was very well supported by the local team. They were always there for us. I really liked that someone came to check on the school every week to see if everything was going well. Even if you go alone, you definitely do not feel alone with all these warm people around you. I have built friendships for life here.If I could go again. I would enjoy every moment even more. I have been in Tanzania for a total of 3 months. In the middle of my adventure I sometimes had a hard time with homesickness. That is why I could not enjoy the full 100 percent. I regret it because now I want to go back every day. I miss it terribly.

Volunteering in Tanzania through IVHQ was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had. I joined the medical program for six weeks, and each day gave me new insight into global healthcare and life in a low-resource setting. I worked in a local hospital and also participated in community outreach, which allowed for more one-on-one interaction with patients. The staff were welcoming and patient, and I learned so much by observing and supporting their work. Outside of the clinic, the cultural immersion was just as valuable. I met amazing people. Both other volunteers and locals had the chance to learn basic Swahili, explore the area, and even go on weekend trips. The in-country support team was helpful and made sure we felt safe and informed. This experience confirmed my passion for medicine and made me more aware of the challenges and resilience in global health. It was humbling, inspiring, and incredibly rewarding. If you’re thinking about volunteering abroad, I highly recommend this program. Go in with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a respectful attitude, and you’ll come out with memories and lessons that last a lifetime.

Volunteering with IVHQ in Portugal was an incredible experience. The country is absolutely beautiful, and getting to explore it with such fun, friendly people made it even better. My advice: be open and put yourself out there — everyone’s there to connect and have a great time. Totally worth it!