Every day around the globe, millions of people take action on issues that matter to them, by volunteering. From climate change to disability inequality, volunteers are a powerful force for change in tackling the many issues that threaten our society.
From local volunteering to global development projects, everyone has the power to make a difference. Hear from VSO volunteers across the globe as they give their top tips on how to make your volunteering experience impactful and enjoyable.
Nicoline’s top tip for immersing yourself in a new experience
Nicoline from the Netherlands has been volunteering in Cambodia since 2022. Her work on VSO’s RECOVER project in Battambang, helps rural communities who face numerous challenges to maintain their livelihoods, especially in a post-pandemic world.
“In our corporate world, we're always so focused on achieving results quickly and efficiently. It's not just about the outcome; it's about the approach and your relationships with those around you. I learned to slow down and appreciate the process.
“Volunteering is not only about helping others, but also about expanding your own perspective, and personal development. It might seem a bit self-serving, but there's nothing wrong with wanting to improve yourself while making a positive impact on the world.
“Broadening my horizon and seeing things from different perspectives helped me realise how fortunate and to appreciate the small things in life.
“I wanted to do something that challenged me, because things that challenge you will ultimately give you confidence. Just because something is difficult, it doesn’t mean you can’t do it – and with that self-confidence, you can make an even bigger success out of it.
Immersing yourself in something new, seeing things from a different perspective, and developing yourself because of that will only get you further in life.
In the end, it can be a truly transformative experience that brings positive energy and lasting memories. I would recommend it to everybody."
Lucy’s top tip for using your passions to reap the rewards
Lucy is an Inclusive Education Advisor on the ACTIVE project, working in her home country of Kenya. Her passion for supporting child education along with her career goal to design education development projects, led her to join the project in 2023.
Volunteering is a journey that rewards you instantly. It's a free school, without strings attached. I would encourage people to apply, to build your network and open yourself up to the many new opportunities.
“What motivated me is the satisfaction of a life changed in the community, even if it is one person. My personality means that I need to offer help to people whose problems resonate with what I value or believe in.
“My major goal is to create lasting change, to create resilience in the community, also to fight for voices of people who don't have voices – or rather people deemed to not have voices.
“I think that if you're going to do something, do it well. When I was young, a volunteer told me, ‘Lucy, it doesn't pay, but you never know who is watching.’ Even if there's nobody watching, the benefits will likely come to you one day.
“Make sure you have fun too! When you are happy you can bring that energy to whatever you’re working on. I've built a network from a space where, previously I didn't know anybody. Now I have people where, if I need anything, I know who to call."
Nelson’s top tip for being considerate of others
Nelson is a Kenyan volunteer working as a Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Advisor for the ACTIVE project. Nelson gives his tips for being caring and considerate while volunteering.
“There's a quote by author and psychologist, Robert Anton Williams, which says:
'Under the present brutal and primitive conditions on this planet, every person you meet should be regarded as one of the walking wounded. we have never seen a man or woman not slightly deranged by either anxiety or grief. We have never seen a totally sane human being.'
“You can look at the people you are working with and, even though they won’t say it explicitly, assume that they are going through something and could be in a dark corner. It could be they don't want to talk to anybody, but the least you can do is just be kind to them, don't make life any bit tougher for them, try to speak to them nicely, try to offer a helping hand whenever you can, try to make them smile, laugh, whichever way you can.
At the end of the day, we're supposed to be making it a little bit lighter for the next person."
Kam’ top tip for personal and professional growth
Dev is a local volunteer, working as a Learning Advisor on a four-year inclusive education project targeting 60 schools in Nepal.
"Personally, and professionally, this experience has made me realise the privileged background I come from. It's taught me the value of doing things for others and finding happiness in selfless actions, even if they don't bring immediate financial rewards.
"I think volunteering itself is never about money. It's an endeavour that offers its own rewards. When you volunteer, you give back to the community you work with, and this interaction can shape not only the community but also your own growth.
Regardless of your background, you can make a significant impact through volunteering.
The smallest actions in a community can lead to substantial changes in people’s lives, and that in itself is a rewarding experience. It's all about voluntary work and making a difference in the community."
ChoCho’s top tip for connecting with the community
ChoCho is a local volunteer working in her home country of Myanmar harnessing the power of education to create positive climate action.
“I learnt that anyone can face limitations or disabilities based on their circumstances. For example, if you're in a different country and can’t speak the language and read signs, etc. This realisation has deepened my understanding of others who may face similar challenges due to disability.
With each volunteer visit, I feel more connected to the community while building meaningful relationships. Volunteering has empowered me to raise the voice of the community and stand up on their behalf.
“Volunteering as a woman has also changed the way the community perceives women. My experience as a volunteer has been immensely rewarding, and one I will never forget.”
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Our volunteers give their top tips for aspiring volunteers
From local volunteering to global development projects, everyone has the power to make a difference. Hear from VSO volunteers across the globe as they give their top tips on how to make your volunteering experience impactful and enjoyable.