Involvement Volunteers International Amongst the beautiful landscapes of Timor-Leste lies a backdrop of cultural richness and natural beauty, and a new volunteering initiative, aiming to make a lasting impact on the lives of locals on the island. IVI are looking for volunteers for a 2 week program in June 2024 in Timor-Leste, focusing on construction and English teaching.
Where is Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is located in Southeast Asia. It occupies the eastern half of the island of Timor, which is situated in the eastern part of the Lesser Sunda Islands, north of Australia. It shares its borders with Indonesia to the west and the Timor Sea to the southeast.
The country is a nation with a turbulent history, has made significant strides towards development in recent years. However, many communities still face challenges in accessing quality education and infrastructure. IVI recognises the importance of addressing these issues through sustainable initiatives, driven by the passion and dedication of volunteers.
2-4 week volunteer program in Timor-Leste
The Construction and English Teaching program offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to contribute to the development of Timor-Leste while immersing themselves in its vibrant culture. Here’s a closer look at what volunteers can expect:
During this visit, we have two main objectives.
1. Purchase a vehicle for the community to transport sick and frail individuals to and from medical facilities. Due to the unavailability of reliable ambulance services or public transportation, many people have lost their lives.
2. Undertake maintenance of the kindergarten building. Since 2019, the building has not received any maintenance due to the lack of basic skills within the community. Therefore, our team will work to ensure the building is in good condition for the children who attend the kindergarten.
We need volunteers with building and maintenance skills to join our team. Free accommodation and some meals will be provided.
At the kindergarten, English is taught as a second language, but the teachers here have a very basic command of English, so it would be valuable to have volunteers willing to join us for a maximum of 4 weeks to teach the children English.
During our visit in 2019, we were lucky enough to have a team of five skilled individuals, three of whom had experience in building, plumbing, and maintenance. Thanks to their expertise, we were able to renovate and establish an Early Learning Centre for the children while teaching some basic skills to the locals who were eager to learn.
IVI’s volunteering program is designed to be immersive and impactful, providing volunteers with meaningful experiences that go beyond tourism. By living and working alongside locals, volunteers gain a deeper understanding of Timor-Leste’s culture and challenges, forging connections that last a lifetime. We also ensure that volunteering efforts are sustainable and community-driven.
But volunteering isn’t just about giving; it’s also about learning and growth. Volunteers will return home with a newfound perspective, enriched by their experiences in Timor-Leste. They’ll carry with them memories of laughter, shared moments, and the satisfaction of knowing they’ve made a tangible difference in the lives of others.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to travel, explore a new culture, and make a positive impact, IVI’s Volunteering Program in Timor-Leste awaits. Join hands with locals, embrace new experiences, and be a part of a journey towards a brighter future for all. Together, we can build bridges, break barriers, and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Learn about the Timor-Leste program here.
