International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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!

Volunteering in Lovina, Bali, with IVHQ was an incredible experience that I would encourage anyone to do. From the moment I started to look for volunteering opportunities, the website was very informative and the staff were exceptional in replying to my queries. Once I had signed up there is a comprehensive guide, including; videos, do's and don'ts and what additional things to factor in before travelling that put me right at ease. On arrival in Bali, the local team were ready to collect me and were so accommodating. They couldn't do enough to make me feel welcome and part of their family. In addition to my volunteering experience, the local team allowed me to explore Lovina and beyond to help me fully understand and appreciate the Balinese culture. I work as a teacher in the UK and decided to travel to volunteer on the teaching programme. Having the opportunity to assist in Kindergarten was a delight, the children were so sweet and the teachers were incredible at making me feel welcome in their classrooms. In the afternoons, I attended school and had my own class delivering English to the children as an extra-curricular opportunity. The local team provided me with a curriculum guide, classroom resources, translator and were able to get any additional worksheets photocopied if required. The accommodation was perfect, 200m from the beach and located in Lovina, away from the tourist areas so you had the true experience of Bali. The rooms were clean and had an ensuite. The staff were super helpful and the food was superb, varied everyday and also catered for dietary needs. I strongly urge anyone to take the opportunity to volunteer at least once in their life if you are able to do this. IVHQ will help you from start to finish with a full range of programmes and countries on offer!