Culture Week

Embark on a captivating journey into the vibrant tapestry of Malawi’s rich culture, savoring its local delicacies, embracing customs, and navigating the realm of social etiquette. Immerse yourself in this cultural extravaganza, where every interaction unveils a deeper connection with the people around you.

Indulge in the joys of cultural immersion as you equip yourself with the essential knowledge to prepare for your stay. Discover the secrets behind Malawi’s signature dishes and learn the art of crafting your very own Malawian tribal bracelet. Engage in delightful visits to local landmarks and leisurely strolls through the city center, fostering genuine bonds with the locals and unraveling the essence of Malawi’s endearing title, “The Warm Heart of Africa.”

Let’s delve into your schedule:

Monday
Breakfast
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
Malawian Do’s and Don’ts, Culture introduction and country history and Chewa Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim card if necessary.
Lunch
Visit a local market in Mangochi.
Visit to the river in Mangochi.

Tuesday
Breakfast
Visit Mangochi town, museum and monuments
Lunch outside
Visit the cultural village
Dinner

Wednesday
Breakfast
Visit Lake Malawi’s national park and the option to go swimming
Lunch outside
Relaxing beside the beach
Back to center
Cooking class
Dinner with food from the cooking class!

Thursday
Breakfast
Visit Liwonde National park
Lunch outside
More sightseeing around the national park
Back to center
Dinner

Friday
Breakfast
Bracelet handicraft lesson
Lunch
Team meeting regarding your placements, a visit to the ongoing programs.
Evaluation for the week
Dinner

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Environmental Conservation

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Malawi and become an active contributor to Mangochi’s sustainable development, while embracing the authentic lifestyle of its villagers!

Join us on this remarkable program, where you will engage in meaningful work amidst the untamed wilderness of Malawi, dedicated to preserving its precious natural landscapes. By collaborating with local communities and supporting their tree nursery campaign, you will play a pivotal role in raising awareness about sustainability throughout the village. Together, we can take the first steps in countering the effects of climate change and fostering sustainable practices.

During this program, you will actively participate in an environmental campaign that directly impacts a local Malawian village. Your contributions will span a diverse range of activities, with a special emphasis on tree nursery education and initiatives.

By planting trees nurtured in our nursery, you will adorn the community’s gathering places, such as schools, local markets, and clinics, with the gift of greenery. Moreover, the nursery serves as a knowledge hub for villagers eager to learn about establishing their own tree nurseries or home gardens. Here, you will actively participate in planning and delivering environmental lessons, covering practical topics like household recycling, reducing carbon footprints, and broader subjects like the far-reaching consequences of climate change and the urgent need for environmental stewardship.

As part of this program, you will also take a leadership role in essential tasks such as garbage collection, creating designated garbage bins, and fostering the development of home gardens. Through these collective efforts, we aim to enhance the sustainability of this burgeoning community.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
Begin your day with a fulfilling breakfast at the Center, preparing you for the adventures that lie ahead. Engage in a meeting with your fellow participants to plan and strategize for the day, ensuring a cohesive and impactful approach.

Seize the opportunity to lead a presentation or facilitate a small group workshop, empowering others with practical knowledge and insights. This is a valuable chance to share your expertise and inspire positive change.

Recharge with a satisfying lunch, fostering camaraderie and conversation among the passionate individuals striving for a sustainable future.

Embark on the fulfilling task of tree planting, where your hands will nurture new life in the soil, and your spirit will connect with the essence of nature’s resilience.

Take part in recycling initiatives, promoting responsible waste management and the crucial practice of reducing, reusing, and recycling.

As the day draws to a close, return to the center to enjoy a well-deserved dinner, where you can reflect on the day’s experiences and engage in meaningful discussions with fellow participants. This sharing of insights and stories will further enrich your personal journey.

Throughout a typical day, you can expect to dedicate 4-5 hours to meaningful work, channeling your passion and dedication towards Mangochi’s sustainability and the preservation of Malawi’s natural treasures.

Embrace this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Malawi’s conservation efforts and leave an indelible mark on the path towards a sustainable future. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey where environmental consciousness meets the vibrant spirit of Mangochi’s villagers.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Teaching Project

Become a catalyst for change and embark on a remarkable journey as a Malawian Community Teacher or Teacher’s Aide, ushering in a new era of eager young minds and helping to enhance their English language skills. By teaching in rural villages or local schools in Malawi, you will not only broaden the horizons of these children but also find deep fulfillment in the process. The local children’s enthusiasm for learning and engagement will provide you with a unique opportunity to engage in conversations, organize stimulating games, and lead group activities, all aimed at elevating their English proficiency.

If you possess a genuine passion for teaching and cherish the company of children, the role of a Community Teacher or Teacher’s Aide in Malawi is certain to be an immensely enjoyable experience. Our established connections with rural village leaders enable us to organize community programs in the local village hall, offering you the chance to make a difference in the lives of children who may face obstacles in attending school due to distance, time constraints, or familial responsibilities.

Various teaching options are available, including traditional classroom settings, where you can collaborate with the staff to deliver lessons as outlined while incorporating your own creative exercises and learning activities. Your assistance will focus on teaching basic English, exchanging songs, engaging in sing-alongs, and participating in educational games. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to guide the children through a myriad of activities, including handicrafts, sports, drawing, coloring, writing, and more.

Prepare yourself to dedicate 4-5 hours a day to this program, involving teaching, leading groups, crafting lesson plans, and curating engaging content for the classes. Many of the children you will encounter are at a tender age and require careful attention and activities that stimulate their minds and aid in their holistic development.

Schedule

Monday to Friday
Commence the day with a nourishing breakfast at the Center, fueling your energy for the inspiring tasks that lie ahead. Join a teachers’ meeting, where you will collaborate with your colleagues to plan and strategize for the day, ensuring a purposeful and impactful learning experience.

Lead teaching sessions, immersing the children in an engaging educational journey, and fostering their English language skills. Your guidance and enthusiasm will ignite their curiosity and spark a passion for learning.

Take a break to enjoy a delightful lunch with the children, forging meaningful connections and creating a nurturing environment where their growth can thrive.

Indulge in playful sports and games with the children, fostering their physical well-being and fostering camaraderie among the young learners.

After the teaching shift, allocate time to prepare lesson plans and engaging activities for the following day, tailoring them to the specific needs and interests of the children.

As the day draws to a close, return to the center for a wholesome dinner, providing a platform to share your experiences and insights with participants from diverse programs, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas.

Embrace the incredible opportunity to nurture young minds, ignite a passion for learning, and be a beacon of inspiration in the lives of Malawi’s children. Together, let us embark on a transformative journey where education and empathy intertwine, creating a brighter future for all.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Kindergarten Project

Immerse yourself in an extraordinary journey as a Kindergarten Teaching Assistant in the enchanting landscapes of Mangochi, Malawi. Our program offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, educational innovation, and community engagement, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to delve into the heart of Malawian life. From sunrise breakfasts enriched with cultural insights to collaborative teacher meetings, each day is an adventure in learning and teaching. Embrace the vibrant local culture as you craft toys from recycled materials, plan themed activities, and share knowledge on health and hygiene practices, fostering a dynamic and impactful experience within the nursery and the wider community. Come, be a catalyst for change, and shape the future of young minds in this beautiful corner of Africa.

This program isn’t just about being a teaching assistant; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring Malawian traditions to co-creating innovative learning activities. It’s a chance to weave your expertise into the fabric of everyday life, contributing to the growth and development of both children and the community. Join us on this remarkable journey and leave an indelible mark of positivity and empowerment in the lives of these young learners and the nurturing community of Mangochi.

Your Role

As a participant in our Kindergarten Teaching Assistant Program, you play a crucial role in nurturing and educating young minds while immersing yourself in a culturally rich environment. Below are key points outlining your responsibilities and contributions during this impactful journey:

Teaching Assistantship and Collaborative Planning:

Regularly attend teacher meetings to strategize and plan daily teaching activities, ensuring alignment with the curriculum and nursery objectives.
Actively assist in implementing the Kindergarten teaching assistant program, supporting teachers in class, and fostering an engaging learning environment for the children.

Innovative Activities and Creative Engagement:

Contribute to the conceptualization and execution of themed days and special activities by brainstorming ideas, gathering necessary materials, and facilitating engaging sessions aligned with the chosen themes.
Collaborate with local teachers and community members to create educational toys from recycled materials, ensuring they meet safety standards and align with the nursery’s educational goals.

Community Involvement and Health Initiatives:

Engage in knowledge-sharing meetings with nursery teachers, exchanging cultural insights, and experiences, and introducing innovative teaching practices from diverse backgrounds.
Research health and hygiene topics relevant to the nursery environment and organize educational sessions or activities to impart knowledge among children and staff.

Maintenance and Compliance Responsibilities:

Inspect and evaluate the nursery block and its surroundings for maintenance needs, actively participating in tasks such as painting, gardening, cleaning, or setting up facilities to enhance the learning environment.
Assist participants in understanding and complying with organizational policies and guidelines, aiding in handling and explaining necessary documents throughout their stay.

Cultural Integration and Orientation:

Participate in an extensive orientation meeting introducing the program’s objectives, house rules, safety guidelines, and essential documents like the Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy.
Engage in comprehensive sessions delving into Malawian history, cultural norms, language basics, and local do’s and don’ts to facilitate seamless integration into the community.
Aims & Objectives
The Kindergarten & Childcare Program aims to provide a nurturing and safe environment for young children under the supervision of trained childcare providers.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast at the accommodation – 0700hrs to 0800hrs
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and explaining & handling of documents (Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy, Media Consent, Etc…)
Malawian brief history, Lessons in Malawian Culture, Do’s and Don’ts and Basic Malawian Language Lessons.
Lunch at the accommodation – 1200hrs to 1300hrs
To ensure participants are well-acquainted with the surroundings, the coordinator will guide the participants to key spots like supermarkets, ATMs, and currency exchange centers and assist in obtaining a local SIM card with data (Airtel Network) for seamless communication during their stay.
Malawian “Nsima” Cooking lesson.
Dinner at the accommodation – 1900hrs to 2000hrs

Tuesday
0630hrs Breakfast at the accommodation
0700hrs – Join a teacher meeting to plan for the day followed by the Kindergarten teaching assistant program
1200hrs – Lunch break (at accommodation)
1300hrs – 1600hrs participants select a theme for an upcoming special day.
Discuss the chosen theme with teachers for approval and brainstorm ideas.
Develop a comprehensive activity program that aligns with the chosen theme.
Collect or create materials and decorations required for the theme day activities.
Example: Planning a sports-themed day involving reading about different sports, singing and dancing to an alphabet song, collecting and sorting bottle caps for color learning, engaging in various sports activities, and ending the day with a self-made medal ceremony.
1900hrs – Dinner at the accommodation

Wednesday
0630hrs Breakfast at the accommodation
0700hrs – Join a teacher meeting to plan for the day followed by the Kindergarten teaching assistant program
1200hrs – Lunch break (at accommodation)
1300hrs – 1600hrs Collaborate with teachers or locals to craft toys from recycled materials or locally available resources.
Ensure the created toys are suitable and safe for nursery use.
Discuss potential uses of these toys within the nursery.
1900hrs – Dinner at the accommodation

Thursday
0630hrs Breakfast at the accommodation
0700hrs – Join a teacher meeting to plan for the day followed by the Kindergarten teaching assistant program
1200hrs – Lunch break (at accommodation)
1300hrs – 1600hrs
Option 1: Preparing a Creative, Sportive, or Musical Activity for the next day Morning:
Plan and organize an engaging activity related to creativity, sports, or music for the nursery children in the morning session.
Option 2: Meeting with Teachers to Share Knowledge and Experiences:
Engage in a meeting with nursery teachers to exchange ideas, share experiences, and introduce any new knowledge or practices brought from different cultural backgrounds..
1900hrs – Dinner at the accommodation

Friday
0630hrs Breakfast at the accommodation
0700hrs – Join a teacher meeting to plan for the day followed by the Kindergarten teaching assistant program
1200hrs – Lunch break (at accommodation)
1300hrs – 1600hrs
Option 1: Research Health and Personal Hygiene and organize Meeting/Activity:
Research health and personal hygiene topics relevant to the nursery environment.
Organize a meeting or activity focusing on educating children or staff about health and hygiene practices.
Option 2: Check-Up and Construction/Service of Nursery Block/Environment:
Inspect and assess the nursery block and surrounding environment for maintenance or servicing needs.
Perform necessary tasks such as painting walls, working in the garden, cleaning, or setting up various amenities.
1900hrs – Dinner at the accommodation

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Construction & Renovation

Our projects are carefully chosen to address the pressing needs of the communities we support. While emphasizing education and sanitation, we also prioritize recreational initiatives such as leveling sports fields and establishing vibrant community centers. These initiatives often become lively hubs for the local community.

Working alongside a diverse group of participants and residents, you’ll collectively work toward a common goal. Malawian workers, skilled in utilizing local materials, will mentor and impart invaluable skills, ensuring swift and effective completion of construction tasks. Tasks vary depending on the project and may involve physical labor that could pose challenges on certain days. However, these projects cater to individuals with moderate physical fitness, and no one will be pressured to undertake tasks they’re uncomfortable with. Embracing the outdoors and collaborating as a team fosters a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

Your Role

You’ll work closely with local skilled workers, learning from their expertise and contributing to sustainable, impactful projects that cater to the underprivileged community’s immediate needs.

Construction and Renovation of Community Infrastructure: You’ll actively participate in building and renovating essential community structures in underprivileged poor areas, such as schools, healthcare facilities, or communal gathering spaces. Tasks may involve laying foundations, constructing walls, or refurbishing existing structures to enhance their functionality.

School and Playground Development: Engage in the construction or renovation of underprivileged educational facilities, including classrooms, playgrounds, and educational infrastructure. This could encompass activities like painting, carpentry work, or assisting in creating conducive learning environments for children.

Community Facility Development: Contribute to the enhancement of communal facilities, such as community centers or gathering areas. This involves various tasks from structural improvements to interior enhancements, focusing on creating spaces that benefit the local community.

Painting Projects: Assist in painting school buildings, community centers, or other relevant structures. Your contribution in this area will help uplift and maintain the aesthetic appeal of essential community spaces.

Woodwork and Furniture Renovation: Participate in repairing, building, or renovating furniture and wooden structures within the community. This could involve tasks like repairing benches, crafting furniture, or refurbishing existing wooden structures.

Logistics and Material Preparation: Engage in tasks like digging, assembling construction materials, and organizing logistics to ensure a smooth workflow during construction and renovation processes.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast at the accommodation – 0700hrs to 0800hrs
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and explaining & handling of documents (Code of Conduct, Child Protection Policy, Media Consent, Etc…)
Malawian brief history, Lessons in Malawian Culture, Do’s and Don’ts and Basic Malawian Language Lessons.
Lunch at the accommodation – 1200hrs to 1300hrs
To ensure participants are well-acquainted with the surroundings, the coordinator will guide the participants to key spots like supermarkets, ATMs, and currency exchange centers and assist in obtaining a local SIM card with data (Airtel Network) for seamless communication during their stay.
Malawian “Nsima” Cooking lesson.
Dinner at the accommodation – 1900hrs to 2000hrs

Tuesday to Friday (and throughout your continued stay from Mondays to Fridays)
0715hrs Breakfast & depart to the placement site
0800hrs – 1200hrs partake in program as per “You’re Roll – General Information” guided by the subject matter expert
1200hrs – 1245hrs Lunch break (Packed lunch or return to the accommodation)
1245hrs – 1600hrs partake in program as per “You’re Roll – General Information” guided by the subject matter expert.
1600hrs Depart to the accommodation
Dinner at the accommodation

This project has specific start dates, see the document below.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances