Volunteer in Ghana

Reflecting on my experience as a volunteer in Ghana, this experience has strengthened my adaptability, teamwork and communication skills, in new environments and has deepened my sense of empathy towards others. For anyone thinking of embarking on a trip like this, I would recommend that you embrace the unknown and stay open to partaking in various opportunities that would definitely add to your growth as an individual. I had the best time in Ghana, and this trip is definitely a highlight of my 2024, so far.

This experience showed me the true reason I want to be a doctor. Healthcare outreach has always been important to me, but going to Ghana shed a whole new light on this. I realized how important it is go out into under-served communities to offer healthcare to those in need. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full health potential, and even the smallest acts can make a difference in someone's life.

Ghana left a lasting impact on me. I learned so much and left with so many life lessons. This trip, despite only being a week long, truly changed my life! To anyone who is hesitant about doing a service trip, I would tell them that they will regret it if they don't go. I was hesitant, too, but after doing one, I am already looking at where I can go serve next. It is one of the best experiences you will ever have.

Do it! Volunteering is something I’ve always wanted to do and this experience didn’t disappoint. The integration between locals and the children was something I've not experienced, the love you feel is incredible. The joy you experience is something that is hard to find at home. Everyone on the local team was amazing, they helped us all, taught us lots of things, and went above and beyond. Everyone is so full of love and kindness you cannot not enjoy yourself, the volunteer work makes you feel as if you are making a difference, and the bonds and friendships you make you will carry with you forever.

My Program Manager and the staff at IVHQ were more than helpful when it came to preparation. They were always available to answer my questions and provided me with so much information! I was nervous when I got to Ghana, however, as the days unfolded I developed tight bonds with fellow volunteers and locals, learned about a new culture, and made memories I still catch myself smiling over. By the time I left, I wasn’t going home - I was LEAVING home. Ghana left a monumental impact on me and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. To anyone who is thinking about joining this program, you’ll be in for a life changing experience if you do.

I participated in the medical program for two weeks. We assisted at a local clinic and visited villages with patients to care for their wounds using limited medical supplies. It is a valuable experience that you cannot have in your own country. I highly recommend participating.

The guidance and support I received was very helpful in making me feel secure and comfortable with my decision to volunteer. The local team was also very supportive and I always felt safe my entire stay which was important to me. Being able to help people in remote places with little or no access to healthcare was an amazing experience.