Volunteer Reviews
I Learnt a lot about Mental Health Care in Ghana
My experience volunteering in Ghana with the psychology and mental health program was incredibly rewarding. I had the opportunity to shadow psychologists at various hospitals, where I learned a lot about mental health care in Ghana. I observed cases ranging from schizophrenia to substance-induced psychosis, which gave me practical insights into diverse mental health conditions. The Psychiatric hospital was particularly interesting, as we spent time in both clinical and rehab areas, shadowing sessions with patients.
Although the work was more shadowing than hands-on, I still felt I gained valuable experience, especially at the Kids Home, where I connected with the children. This made me consider a future career working with kids. The accommodation was comfortable, and we enjoyed weekend trips to Accra and Cape Coast. I would highly recommend this program, particularly to those looking to explore the mental health field while immersing themselves in a new culture.
Although the work was more shadowing than hands-on, I still felt I gained valuable experience, especially at the Kids Home, where I connected with the children. This made me consider a future career working with kids. The accommodation was comfortable, and we enjoyed weekend trips to Accra and Cape Coast. I would highly recommend this program, particularly to those looking to explore the mental health field while immersing themselves in a new culture.
Christina Russo
University of St Andrews
June 2024
Eye-Opening Experience and Lifelong Memories
Volunteering in Ghana was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of both criminal justice and humanitarian work. Working in Ghana gave me valuable insights into Ghana’s criminal justice system. The staff I worked with were incredibly welcoming, and I felt inspired by their passion for criminal justice and humanitarian issues.
My most impactful experiences included field visits, such as interviews at the Awutu Open Camp Prison, Legal Aid Commission Headquarters, and a rural village outreach. These visits allowed me to understand the challenges within the justice system and how reform and rehabilitation efforts are carried out in Ghana. Participating in community outreach programs allowed me to connect with Ghanaians on a personal level and see the meaningful impact of the work we were doing. Overall, this placement broadened my world perspective and helped me develop practical skills, all while exploring Ghana’s rich culture and history.
These experiences not only broadened my knowledge but also fueled my passion for social justice. I left the program with a greater understanding of different legal systems, a sense of fulfilment, and lifelong memories of Ghana’s vibrant culture.
My most impactful experiences included field visits, such as interviews at the Awutu Open Camp Prison, Legal Aid Commission Headquarters, and a rural village outreach. These visits allowed me to understand the challenges within the justice system and how reform and rehabilitation efforts are carried out in Ghana. Participating in community outreach programs allowed me to connect with Ghanaians on a personal level and see the meaningful impact of the work we were doing. Overall, this placement broadened my world perspective and helped me develop practical skills, all while exploring Ghana’s rich culture and history.
These experiences not only broadened my knowledge but also fueled my passion for social justice. I left the program with a greater understanding of different legal systems, a sense of fulfilment, and lifelong memories of Ghana’s vibrant culture.
Rebecca Prado
Griffith University
June 2024
Cultural Differences Impact Patient Care
My time as a psychology and mental health volunteer in Ghana was a life-changing experience. The welcoming and friendly atmosphere made it easy to settle in, and I formed long-term friendships I wouldn’t have made otherwise. The practical experience at Cape Coast Hospital was invaluable, especially shadowing 1:1 sessions with a clinical psychologist and learning about mental health practices in Ghana. Working with the kids and trainee psychologists was a highlight, giving me insight into different approaches to care.
Although there were challenges, like a slower start at some placements, it was a great opportunity to learn about local mental health services, including prayer camps, and how cultural differences impact patient care. This experience taught me to be more open-minded and adaptable, which will help me become a more effective practitioner. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in learning about different cultures and gaining hands-on experience.
Although there were challenges, like a slower start at some placements, it was a great opportunity to learn about local mental health services, including prayer camps, and how cultural differences impact patient care. This experience taught me to be more open-minded and adaptable, which will help me become a more effective practitioner. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in learning about different cultures and gaining hands-on experience.
Plamedie Wangu
University of Kent
June 2024
Gain Practical Experience in a Clinical Setting
My experience as a psychology and mental health volunteer in India was incredibly rewarding. From the moment I arrived, the staff and community were welcoming and made me feel at home. The practical work was the most valuable part of the program, especially practising history taking and interacting with patients. I learned so much about various mental disorders and how to identify and differentiate between them.
The combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience gave me a solid foundation in mental health care. I was surprised by the amount of theory and the intense workload, especially with the weekly 20-minute presentations. This kept me engaged and helped deepen my understanding, while patient interactions provided invaluable real-world experience. I also had the opportunity to learn about Indian culture, which was a meaningful aspect of the program.
Overall, this internship was a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience in a clinical setting and explore different areas of psychology. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to build their career in mental health.
The combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience gave me a solid foundation in mental health care. I was surprised by the amount of theory and the intense workload, especially with the weekly 20-minute presentations. This kept me engaged and helped deepen my understanding, while patient interactions provided invaluable real-world experience. I also had the opportunity to learn about Indian culture, which was a meaningful aspect of the program.
Overall, this internship was a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience in a clinical setting and explore different areas of psychology. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking to build their career in mental health.
Romy Haijema
Utrecht University
April 2024
Experience Exceeded All My Expectations
Settling into the accommodation was easy with a lovely room and all the necessary facilities. The warm welcome from the other girls and initial tips from Ben, another volunteer, made the transition smooth. The hospital was more developed and modern than I expected. Though it was initially challenging to navigate, I felt well looked after.
Working in the hospital was incredible. I got to work under an extremely qualified clinical psychologist, learning a lot from her as well as through the practical elements of working with patients. Interviewing addiction patients, completing patient statistic forms, and having classes with Reema were some of the key experiences. The hospital experience was the most educational, allowing me to put what I have learned into practice. It will certainly help me stand out when applying for jobs, as practical hospital experience is something I couldn’t have done in Australia due to confidentiality.
Participating in the Holi festival and learning about local culture were highlights. Visiting mothers in the slums through the Fund a Mum project was also impactful. The relationships I built were life-changing, making Jaipur feel like a home away from home. I felt fully immersed in India and was lucky to feel at home in another country.
I encourage anyone to join this program. It was an amazing way to experience another country, build life-changing relationships, and gain knowledge for my future career. This experience exceeded all my expectations, and I hope to visit again one day.
Working in the hospital was incredible. I got to work under an extremely qualified clinical psychologist, learning a lot from her as well as through the practical elements of working with patients. Interviewing addiction patients, completing patient statistic forms, and having classes with Reema were some of the key experiences. The hospital experience was the most educational, allowing me to put what I have learned into practice. It will certainly help me stand out when applying for jobs, as practical hospital experience is something I couldn’t have done in Australia due to confidentiality.
Participating in the Holi festival and learning about local culture were highlights. Visiting mothers in the slums through the Fund a Mum project was also impactful. The relationships I built were life-changing, making Jaipur feel like a home away from home. I felt fully immersed in India and was lucky to feel at home in another country.
I encourage anyone to join this program. It was an amazing way to experience another country, build life-changing relationships, and gain knowledge for my future career. This experience exceeded all my expectations, and I hope to visit again one day.
Olivia Temby
University of Melbourne
March 2024
Invaluable Experience in Law and Human Rights
My volunteer experience in South Africa on the Law and Human Rights programme was eye-opening and very impactful. From the moment I arrived, I was also fascinated and amazed by the warm and close-knit community village where I was staying. The daily placement provided an organized workplace with friendly staff, where I gained invaluable practical experience in law and human rights.
I delved into migrant and refugee rights, handling cases where clients faced challenges like citizenship refusals and educational barriers. I learned about South African law firsthand and engaged in drafting legal letters and conducting client consultations. Hearing clients’ migration stories, including the harsh conditions they fled, was profoundly moving and educational.
The skills I acquired are directly applicable to Australian law practices, making this experience incredibly valuable for my future career. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to others interested in law and human rights. In fact, a friend is already eager to join based on my recommendation!
I delved into migrant and refugee rights, handling cases where clients faced challenges like citizenship refusals and educational barriers. I learned about South African law firsthand and engaged in drafting legal letters and conducting client consultations. Hearing clients’ migration stories, including the harsh conditions they fled, was profoundly moving and educational.
The skills I acquired are directly applicable to Australian law practices, making this experience incredibly valuable for my future career. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to others interested in law and human rights. In fact, a friend is already eager to join based on my recommendation!
Lucinda Cleland
University of Adelaide
March 2024
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