Childcare Volunteer Project in Nepal - Kathmandu

Knowledge and understanding of Nepali culture. Just go for it. It’s an experience like no other. There are many other volunteers who are in the same position you are and you can look for them and the local team for support if needed.

I’ve been able to meet like-minded people, immerse myself in the culture by living with a local family, and engage in the community by making a difference where needed. I feel so incredibly fortunate to have been able to experience this as it has genuinely given me a new perspective. I would 100% recommend it. My advice would be that if you have the capacity to help others, why wouldn’t you? And that you’ll never regret making a difference in other peoples lives. Volunteering experience aside, IVHQ is a great organisation to go through as they are helpful and organised.

Whenever I had questions, my IVHQ Program Manager responded quickly, and the way she responded was assuring. When I was in Nepal, I always had the support from my host family when I had questions about the Nepali culture or insights on certain situations. I felt assured and safe at all times.

One door opened and another opportunity presented itself - it happened many times in unexpected ways. The center I volunteered was so eager to absorb every ounce of knowledge and skills I demonstrated and offered. At the same time I was eager to soak up in the Nepali culture and learn who they are. The two-way of learning from each other naturally allowed relationships to blossom authentically and organically.

I believe that my success in volunteering experience was having a mentality of “it is what I make of it” and partially being older with decades of life experience. Instead of criticizing and complaining, I accepted and embraced it all.

All information provided before hand was very useful and the IVHQ Program Manager was always there to help whenever needed. The support from the local team was excellent and very knowledgeable, gave some great advice and recommendations and were there 24/7.

I had the best possible accommodation with a very lovely and friendly family who made you feel at home, very clean and presentable and lovely home cooked meals at reasonable times.

This was an amazing experience that I would highly recommend to anyone, I gained so much knowledge around a new culture and way of life and made memories I will never forget.

From the team that picked me up from the airport and took me to sightsee in and around Thamel, to the homestay owners, everybody made sure that I never felt uncomfortable and that I had the most pleasant experience ever. The meals were so delicious! They were even better than the ones I eat at home, if I might add : )

I could never choose one such favorite moment because I thoroughly enjoyed every single moment I spent in Nepal! When I was working with the little kids and heard about how the Montessori school was founded from the owner, I realised how privileged I'd been all along and I also learnt not to complain about the little things in life.

This was my first time travelling abroad, all alone! If I can do it at a rather young age, you can too. Don't be scared because it's a life-changing experience, especially with IVHQ where you get to immerse yourself into a new culture entirely while still being safe.

My program manager, was very swift with her replies to my enquiries. The program guide was very insightful as well. It provided sufficient information that was needed before the trip.

I am very grateful with the support and efficiency the local team provided.

Living with a local family really exceeded my travelling experience in Nepal. I was welcomed so warmly by the host family. Throughout my stay, I was not only accompanied by fellow volunteers but also got to spend time with the host family. Living at the homestay gave me a sense of security. Having my meals covered by the family was such as blessing. Living with the locals really gave me the best experience I could ever ask for.

Meeting people from all over the world and being able to hear their stories and experiences had the biggest impact on me. Having conversations with friendly strangers made me see again that the world is beautiful, and we are never walking journeys alone.

Fear is very common especially if you are a sole female volunteer. I took that step of faith and courage to see the world with my own eyes, experience adventures for myself and I have never regretted taking that step. I pray that for you (whoever it may be) as well, that as you take this step for yourself, you'll get beautiful experiences as a gift to you.