Before you start considering volunteer work in Africa, you need to be honest with yourself. Why do you want to do it, what can you put into it? These projects want volunteers who can meet the needs of the children rather than meeting the needs of the volunteer. Many volunteers are young and on a gap year before they start university. Living thousands of miles away from home, perhaps for the first time, can be a daunting experience, and, although most projects offer a contact person, they're too busy to hold your hand. These are mature programs and require mature people even when things get tough. So, if you're not sure, put it off for a few years, perhaps after completing your education.

You also need to be aware of child safety issues. Appropriate conduct is expected at all times and the children you will be working with expect the highest standards of safe care. If you don't conduct yourself properly when on project, you will simply be asked to leave ~ with no refund ~ and at your own expense. We do not recommend nor endorse any of these volunteer work in Africa agencies and organisations. You are strongly recommended to make all the necessary enquiries before proceeding with any volunteer project.