Gap Year South Africa - Community Development Program

I have nothing but nice things to say about this organisation! The program is very well managed by Jess and the constant access to transportation makes getting around very safe and easy. The house is well catered and has allowed me to meet lots of new wonderful people that I definitely want to see again and see lots of beautiful scenery that I can't get at home. I had slight concerns about safety before coming out to South Africa but those fears were put to rest immediately and I found out the country is perfectly safe providing you are street smart ie don't go out on your own very late at night. Can't recommend enough to anyone looking to visit South Africa.

If you have a heart for serving and helping others, Gap Year South Africa is your next destination.
I will keep it short and to the point. My decision to be part of the program has been one that I would regret if I hadn't taken it. It is worth every minute you spend away from your family and loved ones. In the Gap house you will have a new family that has one common purpose, which is to draw a smile on the peoples' faces, to work hard to make them better persons for the future. In your Gap journey along with your service, you will also get to know and see a lot about the country and their culture. Its a lot of fun and you will make many precious memories to recall when you get older. Last but not least, I cannot finish my review without speaking about the amazing host 'Jessica Gould'.. She has a heart of gold, she loves what she does and she is the most supportive, fun, crazy, outgoing, passionate, loving person that you can meet (love you Jess :)).
If you are considering the program, don't hesitate because its worth it!

I absolutely loved this program!! If you have the opportunity to go travel to South Africa with GYSA, you should definitely should.

During my time with GYSA, I helped out with the Community Development Program. The program was very flexible--I spent my first few days in Cape Town visiting different organizations to put together a personal volunteering schedule that I was excited about. Ultimately I spent most of my time working in pre-schools and and a disabled school in the township Masiphumelele. The time I spent volunteering was both meaningful and enjoyable.

GYSA is a wonderful and unique program for a number of reasons. You are living in a lovely house surrounded by other people your age, in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The house atmosphere really accelerates the friendships you make. When you are living with ~10 other people, you quickly become friends.

When you're not volunteering (or surfing or helping with Hillsong) there are almost unlimited fun activities to participate in. GYSA helped my group organize a number of touristy activities, such as visiting Robben Island and snorkeling with seals. And even just planning among ourselves we managed to put together a variety of fun weekend adventures. Also, the night life in Cape Town is great. There was never a boring moment.

Gap Year South Africa has provided me with the opportunity to grow as a person while having fun and supporting community development. The house is very secure, and because the group is relatively small compared to many volunteer organizations, you quickly feel like you're part of a family - which minimizes any chance of homesickness! Belinda, the lovely lady who cooks and cleans for us, makes the best food. The projects are well-run and accomodating, with the opportunity to work in different fields according to your interests; my favourite was working at the Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation Youth Centre.