Elderly Care Volunteer Program in Zambia - Livingstone

I gained friendships and understanding of how a different part of the world lives. Even though it is scary because you might have no idea what to expect, Zambia was an amazing country with the friendliest people and support. I felt very safe there and have made connections with the local people.

The local team were very supportive. I loved how they let me call my boyfriend and my parents to let them know I was ok before I got a sim card. We had a thorough orientation. Our flight was delayed meaning we got there a day late but they worked around this to ensure we were settled. They also came to placement with me on my first day and were very lovely, chatty and approachable with any questions. Our toilet was broken on arrival and the local team fixed it immediately which was great.

I felt I connected to the local people and gained insight to their way of life. I feel like we learnt from each other. It was also a very eye opening experience from how things were so different from home and has left me with a more giving mentality and has made me more conscious about my future lifestyle, spending etc.

Volunteering was an amazing experience! There are other volunteers there and it was amazing sharing this experience with them and we often planned our weeks together, so you will not be alone.

The experience to Zambia allowed several different opportunities to volunteer at the local level and give back with a hands-on approach, all while being able to explore and experience the local culture. Great local team, excellent accommodation support, lodging and food. Highly recommend.

One day at my placement, I was sitting with a resident whom I had developed a great friendship with and we were listening to music and telling stories together. In that moment I felt the beauty of humanity as someone who was different from me in too many ways to count could become such a great friend. The experience overall made me realize that people all around the world can connect regardless of their differences. I learned to overcome my anxieties. I am now less shy and more brave than I ever was before, and I truly feel that I can do anything I want.

Seeing the smiles of the elderlies at the old people’s home and the smiles and laughter of the kids that we played football with daily was something I have never experienced before. That feeling was extremely priceless. On my last day of placement, I said goodbye to the elderlies when they hugged and kissed me before sending me off at the gate of the home. I cried. That was when I know, I’ve made the right decision to volunteer. Also, together with the other volunteers, we would always play football every single day at 5pm with the kids living in the area of where our lodge is. On my last day, I went to their houses individually to say goodbye. Not only the kids, but some of the kid’s parents came up to me, gave me a hug and thank me for spending time with their kids. Little did they know that, I should be thanking the kids instead for allowing me to spend the evening with them and giving me a perfect experience. I was hesitant about volunteering at first. But I told myself, if I keep hesitating, the time and the world will continue to move forward with or without me. Give yourself a chance to experience something out of the ordinary. It certainly exceeded my expectations and I’m sure, it will exceed yours too!

I spent 3 weeks with the local team In Livingstone working at my placement and experience was humbling, exhilarating and unforgettable. I went with an open mind and was prepared to help in anyway I could, you can not change the world in 3 weeks but you can make each day a little brighter for someone and I did. I got to see Zambia in a way I would never have seen it before and I loved every minute. Volunteering is the best way to have a holiday of a lifetime and help the community in a way you couldn’t as a tourist. Just do it, you won’t regret it!

My husband and I had a great volunteer experience at our Elderly Care placement in Livingstone. It was very challenging as these are individuals who don't have any family to care for them and have very little means. The staff and elderly people warmed up to us quickly and even though we only learned a handful of Nyanja, communication was not an issue. We shared many laughs and a few tears. We will miss the smiles and characters and hope to return some day. Our advice would be to future volunteers to keep an open mind and your heart will be filled to the brim before you leave.