GVI Logo

GVI

Why choose GVI?

GVI is an award-winning organisation that tackles critical local and global issues through our travel-based volunteer, internship, fellowship and apprenticeship programs as well as online courses, and virtual programs. At GVI, we believe that long-lasting impact is locally-led, which is why our programs are run in partnership with local organisations like the National Parks of South Africa, Madagascar, Costa Rica, Seychelles, Mexico and Thailand.

We’ve been connecting thousands of change-makers, like you, through an extensive range of nature conservation and social development programs in some of the most vulnerable habitats and communities around the world for over twenty years. Our projects tackle a number of critical global issues from turtle and elephant conservation to citizen science and gender equality.

Joining a GVI program gives you the chance to contribute to something bigger than yourself, and be part of a community of global citizens.

Reviews

Default avatar
Cynthia
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Volunteer Trip with GVI in Tenerife

My two weeks of volunteering with GVI in Tenerife has come to an end, and it’s been an incredible experience!

I loved every moment—meeting amazing people from around the world, heading out on the boat to observe pilot whales, and identifying their fins back at base. Spotting loggerhead sea turtles and Atlantic spotted dolphins was also a highlight! I also enjoyed the bus trip with the group to Santa Cruz to go exploring for the day.

If you’re passionate about marine conservation and want to volunteer abroad, I highly recommend giving this a look!

Response from GVI

Hi Cynthia,

Thank you for taking the time to write a review - we loved reading about your time in Tenerife.

We are so pleased that you were able to have some unique and exciting experiences! We hope to see you again soon!

All the best,
Katherine (GVI Outreach Team)

Default avatar
Chris
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

An incredible, enriching and rewarding experience!

I spent 2 weeks teaching English in Siem Reap and it was the most incredible experience that I will never forget.

The GVI staff were extremely welcoming, supportive and completely professional. Helena, Theary and Lon are the most wonderful people and have set an inclusive, positive and comfortable environment for everyone. They were also able to cater for a flexible schedule, depending on my interests and my energy levels.

The accommodation at the Secret Garden was outstanding, it really felt like home. The restaurant meals were of a very high quality and the level of service from all hotel staff was exceptional. The setting with its large pool and gardens feels like a sanctuary in the city.

The teaching component was immensely enjoyable, giving me the opportunity to meet Buddhist monks and students of all ages.

The locations for teaching were varied which gave me an insight into both community classes based at a Buddhist pagoda and a rural government school.

The only feedback I can offer as something to consider would be:
1. Offer feedback during the programme to reinforce if we are doing well or provide any tips - as most of us are not teachers and are learning on the spot
2. Provide training prior to starting - ie the types of teaching tools available such as various games, quizzes etc, and an indication of what the teaching topics will include (ie telling the time, frequency words etc). This would allow for some preparation prior to attending classes.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would stay for longer than 2 weeks!
Pros
  • Making meaningful connections with locals and volunteers from around the world
  • Experiencing the power of teaching
  • Getting to know a country and its people on a deeper level
Response from GVI

Hi Chris,

Thank you so much for leaving a review on this platform!

We value your feedback enormously and will pass on your suggestions to the relevant staff members.

We are so thrilled that, overall, you had an amazing time in Siem Reap! We can't wait to welcome you back on another GVI programme.

Best regards,
Katherine (GVI Outreach Team)

Default avatar
Hamda
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Life changing experience!

My experience with GVI in Fiji was nothing short of phenomenal. It was a life-changing journey that broadened my horizons and transformed my perspective of the world. Living in the village provided a unique opportunity to fully immerse myself in Fijian culture, surrounded by warm, welcoming locals who treated us like family.

We shared weekly lunches with our host families, cheered on the local boys as they played rugby, attended church to listen to the uplifting hymns, and explored Fiji’s breathtaking landscapes. From scenic hikes to serene beach walks, every view was stunning and unforgettable.

As a Community Development Intern, I had the privilege of engaging in diverse and impactful activities. I taught in local schools, conducted health workshops, contributed to a district waste management project, and designed and implemented a financial literacy initiative for village youth.
Through GVI Fiji, I gained invaluable skills, built lasting connections with incredible people from around the globe, and created memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. This experience truly holds a special place in my heart.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
This was my first time travelling alone and i was going to the opposite end of the planet. I knew nobody and was super nervous. But the GVI teams support through out the process made me feel really reassured and comfortable, they introduced us to our group before hand so we could sync travel plans with other participants which was great! If something feels scary, just do it dont hold back those are usually the things that reap the greatest rewards.
Pros
  • Meet people from all over the world
  • Build your skill set
  • Immerse in a new culture
Cons
  • Costly
  • I wish i stayed longer
  • I wish there was more i could do whilst i was there.
Response from GVI

Hi Hamda!

Thank you so much for leaving a review on this platform.

We are so grateful for all your efforts and hard work to this amazing community in Fiji. It is great that you felt this experience was so valuable and rewarding.

Perhaps we will see you again on another GVI program?

All the best,
Katherine (GVI Outreach Team)

Default avatar
Maya
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Opportunity of a lifetime!

The work was really clearly set out from the beginning. With great support and an encouraging and welcoming environment, I was able to complete my program successfully at my own pace and help others as a result. My supervisor played an especially pivotal part in my experience as she definitely made the program a smooth experience. The perfect opportunity for those in gap years or if you’re looking for a career break! Not only does the programme offer the experience but masterclasses, workshops, and online courses.

If you did this all over again, what's one thing you would change?
I would do an in-person volunteering programme. I’d love to see the impact in real life.
Response from GVI

Hi Maya,

Thank you so much for leaving a review on your GVI experience.

We are thrilled that you felt that this time was rewarding and that you were supported throughout!

All the best,
Katherine (GVI Outreach Team)

Default avatar
Luke
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

The GVI experience

Ever since I was young I had the travel bug. I searched for ages to find the best travelling programs and I believe I found it when it comes to GVI. The people were amazing especially the guides with not a single moment being dull. The amazing experience and still being friends with the people I traveled with . My trip to Thailand with GVI was one in a life time that I will remember forever being completely immersed in the culture. Meeting so many amazing people. A program that I would recommend to anyone

What was your funniest moment?
Speaking with the leader as they were so funny
Pros
  • Amazing experiences
  • Amazing people
  • Well run
Cons
  • Price
  • People different plans
  • Hotels
Response from GVI

Hi Luke,

Thank you so much for leaving a review on this platform!

We are so pleased that you loved your GVI experience so much and hope to see you again soon!

All the best,
Katherine (GVI Outreach Team)

Programs

Displaying 1 - 9 of 37

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I’ve always been interested in conservation, but thought I’d never have the time to really explore what was available. Due to redundancy, I decided to act on this desire finally do something for me.

I am passionate about all wildlife and its conservation, but especially turtles due to their long life and the huge impact short sighted actions have on the population. I have been reading books on their history and work being carried out for them. The biggest impact for me is that the work you do now isn’t realised for up to 35 years, so what you do if for long term, not short term reward. Their beauty, grace and endurance being affected by their outright vulnerability in and out of the water gives me a heartfelt desire to do something to give them and their future a chance, even if that is only a few weeks to help a small amount on their, hopefully, long journey.

One of the first websites I looked at was GVI. They have many many hubs around the world with a diverse range of projects. After several informative and guidance emails and chats, it was clear that the time of year and my dates gave me 2x locations to look deeper into. I struggled to get the correct dates and thought another opportunity would pass me by. However looking at other sites convinced me further that GVI was the right one to go for. I changed my dates based on my research and the enthusiasm and support I was given from the GVI team, signing up for GVI Thailand - Ban Nam Khem.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

I contacted GVI direct from their website. Sending the first email was scary and exciting at the same time. I didn't really know what to expect and hoped that I'd made the right choice. The email response, information location guidance and their request to call me were very welcome. The call back I had really set the picture and even offered other programmes to consider to ensure I was getting what I wanted. Further research and GVI help reassured me that I was with the right people, going to the right place for me.

Before I signed up, I checked the flight and accommodation availability. Once all looked good, I signed up and started booking! The guidance for applying for the visa was spot on, I had to travel to London to apply and collect my Visa, but Visa support companies will do this for you. I booked the flight direct with Qatar, I also booked the first night hotel via Booking.com which was quick and easy to do. That was it, I was set to go.

What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

The one piece of advice is to have confidence that you'll have a great time. Selecting the programme you like means you will meet like-minded people and you'll have a great time. Volunteer holidays are full of opportunity, most people travel without knowing anyone and you'll leave with many new friends. Other advice would be to follow the GVI advice on research topics and to download an app with the country's language, it really boosts your experience.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

I was lucky as the timing was right for a couple of unusual events.

Most days comprise a morning and afternoon activity. Due to the Sun setting early, there's a lot to pack in. The Marine Conservation programme focusses on 2x visits a week to the Royal Thai Navy base to work cleaning turtle tanks, cleaning baby turtles and measuring and treating larger turtles for any infections. The programme also completes a 3 day visit to a couple of off-shore islands, completing butterfly, bird survey and Coral reef surveys. My time included 3x intern leadership project completions. The interns had been working on their different conservation projects and we worked for each of them for a day. The projects were to man stands in the local town to provide advice and awareness of issues within the country, help create conservation information posts to bring awareness of waste in the sea and a local garden to provide food and a better environment for volunteers. We also completed a sponsorship event raising money for food for the turtles.

Finally, you have weekends off, which most people take the opportunity to travel around the country together to visit other tourist attractions and cities.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear was my age. I imagined a lot of young adults not wanting an old person of their parents' age around!! I'd left volunteering late in life, but couldn't let my concerns hold me back! From the moment I arrived, everyone was friendly and inclusive. It was easy to see that age was not an issue. In addition, there are more people volunteering later in life that I realised.

What was your biggest curiosity before participating in the program?

For me the one question I wanted to know was "Will it be worth it" As with all things in this world, you really do get what you pay for. GVI are not the cheapest volunteer organisation. I did consider cheaper offers, but my research led to me question their direction and motivation was not the same as GVI. The onsite staff are dedicated, the food is fresh and cooked by locals, the activities are vast and all with local people providing the transport, guidance, food, accommodation etc. To see where my money went really proved to me that it was the right choice, fair and well spent.

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Jill Blavet

Job Title
Virtual Internship Supervisor
Jill loves traveling, meeting new people and is passionate about conservation.
She joined GVI in 2020 to learn more about marine life protection. As an intern, Jill worked with organisations based in South Africa, Thailand, and Mexico on marine conservation projects. She also supported education, wildlife, and marine conservation projects in Fiji, Costa Rica, and Seychelles. Soon after completing her internship, she joined GVI as the Virtual Internship Supervisor, where she supports the Virtual Internship programs. Jill believes that it is vital for communities around the world to learn and understand nature's value to improve our behaviour and relationship with the natural environment, which will allow future generations to enjoy it sustainably.
Jill Blavet

Interview

What is your favorite travel memory?

My trip to South Africa, for sure! It was full of adventures and learning experiences. I felt so close to nature, where I feel the happiest! I have been fascinated by the ocean and marine life from an early age. When I was in Florida, I had swam with Dusky sharks, which was very special; however, my encounter with a Great White through cage-diving in South Africa made me fall in love with sharks even more. During my trip to South Africa, I contributed to the conservation of Great Whites, which was why my travel experience was so enriching. Being in their natural habitat was mesmerising and sharing that serene moment with a Great White underwater was indescribable.

How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?

I have a deeper understanding of the intersections of the economy, environment, and social factors. Each Sustainable Development Goal is intertwined with one another and is vital to meet each of these goals for the survival of life on earth. Also, when I first joined GVI, I was set on working from one or two locations, but now I have many in mind.

What is the best story you've heard from a return student?

Speaking from personal experience, as a volunteer in marine conservation at GVI, I had the incredible opportunity to design video content for Saving Our Sharks to raise awareness on shark conservation; I was happy to have helped inspire people to change their perspectives on sharks. Additionally, I researched and redesigned educational material on Marine Protected Areas and the positive impact on communities where they are implemented: the education materials were to be utilised by business schools in South Africa. I have now returned to GVI as a VI supervisor, and I look forward to welcoming students from around the world to the VI programs.

If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?

Honestly, there are so many programs that I would like to take part in that it is hard to choose just one as they all offer something unique! But, if I had to choose just one, it would be the Lemon Shark and turtle conservation program in Curieuse Island. The reason why I would choose this program is because it deepens the understanding of shark behaviour and furthers conservation efforts, which is crucial now more than ever. Sharks have been around for about 450 million years, and they've survived five massive planet extinction events. Sadly, now some species are critically endangered, and the Lemon Shark population is decreasing, making the species vulnerable. Therefore, it is imperative to use the tags to better understand how to conserve sharks and improve the relationship between humans, sharks, and other marine life.

What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?

The people! We are all passionate and dedicated to make a positive change, and we share common goals and values. GVI works with inspiring partner organisations across different locations, which is exceptional. I am very proud that my team ensures we tailor every program to the interns' interests to maximise their experience whilst ensuring the projects that our global partners need are delivered in time and with excellent quality.

What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?

Firstly, I believe people are the biggest asset of a company; people are the driving force of a successful organisation. Secondly, an organisation with practices that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs is another success factor. Lastly, it is vital for an organisation to support work-life balance and value its employees to move forward successfully.

Professional Associations

Gap Year Association Logo