IVHQ is great with communication and their follow ups process was amazing. The accomodation in Arusha, Tanzania is amazing, and the orientation that I got taken through was in depth and useful. They prepare you as best as they can and set you up for a great experience. The group calls on Zoom before the trip as well as the facebook group chats were also amazing. I would recommend IVHQ to future participants for structure, social connection, and a smooth and easy registration and onboarding process.

Travelling all the way to Tanzania from Canada was one of the scariest experiences of my life. My first time on a plane, my first time, leaving my country and doing it all by myself.

When I first arrived in Tanzania, I was shocked with how beautiful the country was. I was picked up from the airport by the local team and took back to my volunteer house where I was able to meet the house mamas and the rest of the volunteers. Everyone was so kind and so nice and if you ever needed anything each and every person there was more than willing to help you. For the first month that I was there, I volunteered in a daycare. I remember the first day that I walked in in all of the little faces and smiles when they got to see you in the hugs that met you instantly without them even knowing you for more than 10 seconds it was from that moment on I knew that this was the best decision of my life that I could’ve ever made. Each day I spent there. I’d wake up excited in the morning to be able to go to my placement and experience the days that I got to with the kids getting to learn more about them their interest getting to hear them yell my name as they heard my footsteps coming up the stairs to the door.

After my first month wanted to branch out more and experience what it would be like to volunteer at one of the schools. I thought that I had already made the best decision of my life, but it got even better and I didn’t know how it was possible spending my second month at the school definitely was the right decision as I never knew how much I needed the kids in my life that I met there. I was lucky enough to get to teach grade 5, and I will never forget their names their eyes their smiles in their hearts. every day that I get to school they’d all come. Running to the door and fight about who got to carry my water bottle in my bag to the desk to sit down. They would get so excited about me being there and asked what I was going to teach them that day and I don’t think they realized how much they were teaching me. The hardest part of my whole experience was having to leave after creating a home there that I would forget keep in my heart.

I want to begin by expressing what an incredibly fulfilling and life-changing experience these past two weeks have been. I had the privilege of joining the childcare program in Arusha, Tanzania, and from start to finish, everything exceeded my expectations.

From the moment I registered and paid my program fees, the level of communication and support I received was outstanding. As this was both my first solo trip and my first volunteer experience, having clear guidance and reassurance was extremely important to me. Every question I had—no matter how small—was answered promptly and thoroughly, which gave me so much confidence leading up to my departure.

Despite the time difference, the team remained consistently responsive and helpful. I was provided with detailed, step-by-step instructions on everything from applying for my visa to preparing the necessary documents, along with a comprehensive program guide outlining essential items to bring, vaccination information, and what to expect at the volunteer house. Every detail was thoughtfully covered, leaving me feeling fully prepared.

As my trip approached, the Zoom call was another highlight—it addressed additional questions and helped me feel even more at ease. The level of organization and care put into every stage of the process truly set this experience apart.

This journey has impacted me in ways I cannot fully put into words. It has opened my eyes, filled my heart, and inspired me to continue volunteering as a meaningful part of my life. I am so grateful for this opportunity and excited to share my experience with others. I sincerely hope to continue participating in future programs and making a difference through this incredible organization.

It was amazing! The program I did was so fun and fulfilling! And the staff at my house were so kindhearted and wanted to help with everything you asked/was wondering. It also felt very safe to be there, and it was always security around the house. The food was also so good! The staff there did a really good job with cleaning the house, making sure we had enough food etc. The transport there was also very good, and we always got the transport right away when we asked. It was also very easy to drive around and to get places fast. The people there are also very kind and always want to help you if you have a question.

An amazing and rewarding experience. Working in childcare and visiting the local school was incredibly special and eye-opening. The children’s joy, resilience and eagerness to learn, despite limited resources, was truly inspiring. Everything was well organised, allowing us to feel supported and fully present throughout the trip. The millions of connections made with the children, teachers, local community and fellow volunteers made this experience unforgettable and something I will always be grateful for.

My experience with IVHQ was wonderful! Everything was very well organized and went perfectly during my time abroad in Arusha, Tanzania. They addressed all of my needs and followed up with me to be sure all was going well during my volunteer time in Africa. They were easy to reach and responsive to me when I had questions. I was very happy with all of their assistance and all of the arrangements they made for me. I could not have hoped for a better experience and I definitely feel like my time volunteering was very rewarding!

Tanzania changed me in a unique way. I loved living in Arusha, volunteering at Simba House, and connecting with local people who showed me a simpler, more genuine way of seeing life. The markets, the colors, the sounds, and the Maasai culture awakened a deep curiosity and joy in me. And the kids and teachers in my placement where the best people with the people And above all, I cherished capturing every moment with my camera — the wildlife, the skies, the smiles, and the sound of Africa each Memory holds an emotion that reminds me of who I was there and who I want to keep becoming after that journey.

Volunteering in Zanzibar was a truly transformative experience. Beyond contributing to educational and community projects, I had the chance to connect closely with the local culture, learn from the warmth of its people, and experience a simple and authentic way of life. Working with children and families allowed me to feel that, even in a small way, I could make a meaningful impact. Zanzibar offered not only breathtaking landscapes, but also deep human connections and a renewed perspective on solidarity and the power of small actions.