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Ella joined us in South Africa last Autumn for a Psychology and Criminology and has kindly shared her wonderful story with us! Read on to hear all about it.
Landing In Johannesburg and Getting Settled
Arriving in South Africa, I couldn’t help but feel a bit apprehensive about stepping into a new environment and meeting the challenges of such a meaningful role. The prospect of applying my knowledge to support vulnerable communities and gain invaluable hands-on experience made me a little nervous, but felt like the first step in an incredible journey of growth and purpose. Before leaving for the trip, I took the time to do some research on the area and the organisations we would be volunteering with, which helped me feel well-prepared for the journey ahead. The support we received from Vocational Impact was invaluable; their thorough preparation and detailed context gave us a clear understanding of the people we would be working with and the important work we would be doing. This background knowledge not only eased my nerves but left Sophie and I feeling prepared and excited for the experience ahead.
Meeting the team on the ground, we were greeted with such warmth and enthusiasm that we immediately felt welcomed and ready for the exciting experiences ahead. The moment Sophie and I arrived at the hotel, we were immediately struck by how welcoming and comfortable the staff made us feel. The hotel was not only clean and spacious but also perfectly suited to our needs, providing the comfort and accommodation we had hoped for in South Africa. The atmosphere was warm, and we quickly grew close to both the other volunteers and the hotel staff. Their kindness and openness helped us feel truly accepted, creating a sense of community that made our time there even more memorable. It was exactly the supportive environment we needed to settle in and fully embrace the experience.
Meeting the team and the other Volunteers!
From the moment we arrived, Sophie and I got along so well with the other volunteers, and it quickly felt like we were all part of one united team. We supported one another through every challenge, and the camaraderie we shared made the work feel even more meaningful. Having the chance to interact with volunteers from other organisations and join in outreaches and incredible trips, like the safari, helped us bond even more. Living in the cottage at the community outreach project felt like being surrounded by friends I had known for years, and this sense of community made our time in South Africa even more special. It was an experience that not only strengthened our professional connections but also forged lasting personal friendships.Additionally, meeting and collaborating with other interns from around the world was an enriching experience, as it allowed me to build global connections and exchange perspectives on the work we were all so passionate about.
The team at the partner projects also welcomed us with open arms, making us feel like part of their dedicated and passionate community from the very first day. Their kindness and support were evident in everything they did, and it was inspiring to see the depth of their commitment to helping children and families affected by trauma. I was able to communicate well with them and I felt supported throughout my placement. From the very beginning, the staff were approachable and open to any concerns or requests. Whether it was related to our work, accommodation, or personal needs, they were always willing to listen and provide the necessary support. My observations about the organisation were overwhelmingly positive. The team was passionate, dedicated, and genuinely committed to the mission of supporting vulnerable communities, especially in addressing gender-based violence, child protection, and community development. They were incredibly supportive and made my experience truly unforgettable.
Volunteering Abroad on a Psychology and Criminology Programme
During my time with both organisations, I was involved with a variety of impactful cases and projects. During my time in South Africa, so many experiences stood out that truly shaped my journey.
Working at the Foundation for Victims of Abuse and Violence
Working alongside the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) team was both motivating and eye-opening; the impactful work they do to support survivors and raise awareness fuelled our own passion for making a difference. Being part of such a driven and compassionate team made us feel empowered and inspired, reinforcing the importance of our contributions to the cause. It was incredibly rewarding. I also found my time at a rehabilitation centre profoundly impactful. Hearing the stories of individuals struggling with addiction and understanding how it intersected with increased GBV rates gave me valuable insights into the complexities of these issues. It was inspiring to witness people taking responsibility for their actions and educating themselves, rather than just focusing on the victims of abuse. At the foundation, we worked with several schools, both state and private, providing support to children and educators alike. Our involvement extended beyond just the needs of women and children, as we also participated in community dialogues across Johannesburg, ensuring a more holistic approach to the issues at hand. We spent much time with the GBV team, who not only provided valuable insight into the work we were doing but also took us to less touristy spots of Johannesburg, offering us a deeper understanding of the city and its people. We also spent a great deal of time with a remarkable individual who enriched our academic and professional growth at the foundation, while also introducing us to key members of the community, including police officers and forensic social workers. Shadowing members of the GBV team and forensic social workers at the foundation was an incredibly educational experience. Although we weren’t able to sit in on therapy sessions, the opportunity to learn about the context of their work and contribute to reading and assisting with paperwork and field cases was invaluable. It provided a deep understanding of the complexities involved in supporting survivors of gender-based violence and the importance of thorough, compassionate case management. This hands-on experience gave me practical insights into the field and has been instrumental in shaping my approach to working with vulnerable populations in the future.
Psychosocial Work in the Community
With the psychosocial project, I collaborated closely with the team to address educator burnout, helping to create more supportive environments for teachers. This not only improved their wellbeing but also enhanced the quality and meaning of their teaching, ultimately benefiting the students they work with. We were quickly immersed in community development, working hands-on with women and children. One of the highlights was presenting a speech to a school cohort of 200 students, which made our efforts feel not only meaningful but also empowering, as we were able to reach such a large audience and raise awareness. During our time working with the organizations, we participated in several professional activities that provided us with valuable insights and hands-on experience. One key area was Research Development, where we created marketing and advocacy materials tailored to the psychosocial needs of South African communities. This involved understanding the local context and crafting messages that resonated with the community’s needs. We were also involved in building networks, which included communicating with existing and potential donors, as well as government partners across Africa. This allowed us to see firsthand how crucial partnerships and funding are in sustaining impactful work. Additionally, we contributed to influencing policy, by engaging with the community to raise awareness and provide insights into critical social issues such as HIV, education, and violence. We also gained valuable exposure to the justice process surrounding these issues, deepening our understanding of the broader systemic challenges at play.
Staying With The Community Project for People with HIV
Lastly, living and working with the women and children at the community village was life-changing. Helping with youth development and forming personal connections with the residents there gave me a deeper understanding of their experiences and empowered me in my career, providing a sense of purpose and direction in my work with vulnerable populations.
My time at the foundation and working with the kids was truly incredible. It was a transformative experience that deeply impacted me both personally and professionally. The children were incredibly resilient, and seeing their strength and potential, despite the challenges they faced, was both inspiring and humbling. The work we did together, whether it was through educational activities, emotional support, or simply spending time with them, made me realize the profound importance of creating safe and nurturing environments for children to heal and grow. The team at the foundation was equally welcoming and supportive, and I felt like we were all working towards the same mission of making a positive difference in the lives of these children.
Adventuring In South Africa
When Sophie and I first arrived, we were both a bit apprehensive, especially given the stigma surrounding Johannesburg. However, on our first day, we ventured to a market and explored the city, and we quickly realized that with the right precautions—staying in contact with staff and using reliable transportation like Uber—Johannesburg can be like any other city. In the evenings, we often gathered for dinner at the hotel, where we would catch up on our journals and any work we had to do. But we also made time to visit nearby attractions like the theme park and Gold Reef City, which offered a fun way to bond with the other volunteers and connect outside of our work. It was especially nice to spend time together and ensure that everyone felt included, even if we were all working on different projects during the day. On the weekends, we had the opportunity to take the kids from the community village on hikes, go on safari, and visit Pretoria. Outside of our work, the volunteer coordinator made our time off equally memorable, inviting us to a braai at her house, introducing us to her family, and taking us on a self-drive safari. The team at the psychosocial project was equally welcoming, inviting us to join their team wellbeing trip, where we had the opportunity to participate in yoga at a spa and connect with everyone on a deeper level.
During my placement, I had the chance to go on several unforgettable adventures. One of the most exciting experiences was going on a safari, where we saw a wide range of wildlife in their natural habitat. We also visited a self-drive nature reserve, which allowed us to explore the landscape at our own pace and take in the beauty of South Africa’s outdoors. After the placement, we explored Cape Town, where we had the opportunity to climb Table Mountain and take in the stunning views of the city and coastline. Another thrilling experience was going shark diving, which was both exhilarating and humbling. We also visited the Apartheid Museum, which provided a powerful and moving insight into South Africa’s history.
Career Aspirations and Making An Impact
I believe this placement has significantly helped with my ongoing studies and career progression. The hands-on experience gained through working with organizations focused on gender-based violence, child protection, and community development has deepened my understanding of these critical issues and their broader social implications. The opportunity to engage in research development, build networks with international and local stakeholders, and contribute to policy influence has equipped me with valuable skills in advocacy, communication, and community engagement. These experiences align closely with my academic background and future career aspirations in social justice, community development, and international NGOs. Furthermore, the chance to work alongside professionals in the field has broadened my network and enhanced my ability to navigate complex social challenges, positioning me for future roles that require both practical expertise and a strong commitment to social impact.
I definitely felt that I made an impact and supported the projects during my placement. Throughout my time with the organisation, I was able to contribute meaningfully to a variety of initiatives, whether through research, community outreach, or assisting with practical tasks like creating advocacy materials and engaging with local stakeholders. The work we did with the GBV team, for example, felt particularly rewarding, as we were able to raise awareness and provide support to those in need. The school and community outreaches were undoubtedly the highlight of our trip. While the local trips, such as the safari and our time in Cape Town, were equally amazing, it was the people we connected with that truly left a lasting impact. The experiences we shared and the relationships we built with the communities inspired me deeply, and even though I’ve since returned home, their influence continues to shape my career aspirations. The work we did has become the central focus of my future career goals, and I am now determined to return to South Africa to work alongside the incredible teams once again, contributing to the meaningful change we started together. The programs in place were well-structured and made a meaningful impact, and I could see how they were actively working toward their long-term goals.
Advice for Future Volunteers!
My tip for future volunteers would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way and take the time to research the places and activities you can explore.
When embarking on a similar placement approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, so being flexible and receptive to different ways of working will help you get the most out of your time.
Take time to research the local culture, the organisations you’ll be working with, and the issues you’ll be addressing, as this will prepare you for the context and deepen your understanding.
Also definitely take a journal. All of us brought one, and looking back, I’m so grateful we did. It allowed us to capture our thoughts, experiences, and memories from our trips, as well as include photographs taken together.
I would highly encourage my friends and university peers to participate in this placement. It’s an incredibly enriching experience that offers both personal and professional growth. The opportunity to work on meaningful projects in an international context, while making a tangible impact on local communities, is something that will stay with you long after the placement ends. My experience was incredibly positive and there is no way I would change it.
