Women’s Empowerment in Ubud, Bali

WHY we need you in Bali

HOW can you help?

WHAT can you do?

Why Involvement Volunteers International?

  PROJECT NAME: WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT 

LOCATION: UBUD

  START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS) 

  ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE

  MIN DURATION: ONE WEEK

  MIN AGE: 18+

  SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: C6 Visa Required, Criminal background check required

Overview

If you’re passionate about women’s rights, equality, and making a difference, this program in Ubud, Gianyar, offers a unique chance to create a lasting impact in the lives of women in need. You’ll have the opportunity to teach basic English, share handcrafting skills to produce authentic Balinese items for the tourism market, support women recovering from trauma, and offer valuable guidance on business growth, profit management, and investment strategies to strengthen the local economy.

Our initiative supports women facing a range of financial and personal challenges—single mothers raising children alone, women struggling after separation from their husbands, and those coping with family health crises. Each woman’s story is different, but our shared goal is to empower them to build brighter futures and achieve financial independence.

The program thrives on the dedication of individuals committed to uplifting women from diverse backgrounds. Key areas include providing essential English lessons to improve employability in Bali’s tourism-driven economy, offering business coaching to help women run successful enterprises, supporting trauma recovery through psychological care, and enhancing arts and crafts skills to boost income potential.

Project Focus

  • English Language Education – Strengthening spoken and written English for better career opportunities.
  • Well-being Classes – Promoting physical and mental health for a balanced lifestyle.
  • Business Growth Support – Helping women expand and manage their enterprises more effectively.
  • Creative Skills Development – Guiding craftswomen to innovate, diversify, and increase sales.

Who This Is For

  • Psychologists, psychiatrists, or students in related fields.
  • Professionals in economics, entrepreneurship, or small business development.
  • Anyone eager to teach basic English skills.
  • Arts and crafts specialists who can inspire creativity and skill growth.

Project Placements
Women in need join various program activities, including:

  • Teaching Basic English – Focusing on conversation and writing skills to help women communicate with tourists, generate income, and improve quality of life.
  • Trauma Recovery Support – Providing one-on-one or small group psychological care to help women heal from domestic violence or other challenges.
  • Small Business Development – Advising women entrepreneurs on marketing, operations, and profit growth.
  • Creative Skills Enhancement – Offering advanced techniques to craftswomen to help them diversify products, reach wider markets, and increase earnings.

General Information
Every Friday, you’ll confirm your personalised action plan for the week ahead. Our local team will coordinate everything needed so you can focus on making a meaningful contribution in your chosen area.

Location

Ubud, pronounced ‘oobood’ is located centrally in the heart of Balinese culture. Far removed from the tourist crowds of Kuta, it is famous as an arts and crafts hub, and much of the town and nearby villages seems to consist of artists’ workshops and galleries and a general feeling of well being. Ubud is surrounded by most of the things that bring people to this unique destination – scenic rice fields, small villages, art and craft communities, ancient temples, palaces and rivers.

Project Tasks

  • The aim and objective are to empower women in need to attain a better quality of life, despite the challenges they encounter.

Food & Accommodation

Ubud Outskirts (Pejeng) is approx. 15 min drive from Ubud. We’re talking pigs, chickens, roosters crowing…. This is a real Balinese experience! Standard accommodation will be in shared bedrooms in dedicated volunteer guest houses in the outskirts of Ubud, within genuine local Balinese communities. A free shuttle to Ubud exists 4 times p/week, otherwise taxi’s are super cheap especially when sharing with your new volunteer mates. Living conditions are comfortable and clean, with fans in the rooms. A minimart/grocery store is 5 minute walk. You can expect regular interaction with locals where you can practice your new found language skills. You can expect to share a room with between 4-8 other volunteers. The bathroom is shared and has hot water and western toilets.

*For couples or those wanting more privacy, there are upgrade accommodation options available    

All volunteers have access to a swimming pool (10 min walk from volunteer house), which can be used for a fee of approx US$3. There are also several gyms nearby. There are many ATM’s in Ubud centre. Wi-Fi is available at the volunteer guest house. Internet cafés are also nearby. 

*All participants are expected to be environmentally responsible and to use all resources with restraint, especially water, paper and electricity. You will be expected to clean up after yourself, and to play your part to keep the accommodation neat and tidy.

As a volunteer in bali, you’ll receive 3 traditional meals each day on weekdays and 2 meals on weekends (breakfast and dinner). Indonesian food is tasty and diverse and volunteers can expect dishes included nasi goreng (fried rice and vegetables), mie goreng (fried noodles and vegetables),  or gado gado (mixed vegetables with a satay sauce). For those who do not eat meat, Indonesian cooking uses a lot of tofu and tempeh (soy beans).

Breakfasts are varied and include pancakes, fresh fruit, toast etc. Tea, coffee will be available at the volunteer house. Purified water is available in the volunteer house. We do not recommend that you drink the tap water.  If volunteers wish to eat out in Ubud, there are a large numbers of restaurants and local warungs (restaurants) to suit all tastes and budgets. There is also a western café in the village for fresh fruit juices, fresh coconuts and sweet treats. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when you apply so we can make arrangements for you.

*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.

 

All prices in USD
  • 1 Week - $460
  • 2 Weeks - $540
  • 3 Weeks - $710
  • 1 Month - $910
  • 2 Months - $1930
  • 3 Months - $2820
Vol House
What's Included
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Airport Pickup
  • Local Transportation
  • 1 Day Orientation
  • 24/7 In-Country Support
  • Project Materials & Equipment
  • Pre-departure Expert Advice
  • Preperation Tools & Checklists
  • Certificate of Completion

Testimonials...

FAQ

Suitable for:

  • Professionals in psychology or psychiatry
  • Experts in economics, small business development, or entrepreneurship
  • Anyone interested in teaching basic English skills
  • Individuals skilled in arts and crafts to inspire creativity and skill development

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: ID – Holidays – All ProgramsFor information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: ID – Holidays – All Programs

  • Accommodation
  • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
  • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
  • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
  • 1 day orientation
  • Daily transportation to project
  • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
  • Fundraising support
  • University course credits (where applicable)
  • Certificate of Completion

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: ID – Holidays – All Programs

  • Airfares
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

Included in the program fees is a half day orientation which starts on the Monday. This is important to help you become familiar with your surroundings, as well as learning about the local customs & culture to help you get the most from your volunteering experience.

Typical Orientation Includes:

  • Meet & greet with your new team and coordinators!
  • Introduction meeting, general rules, setting expectations, advice on health and safety and handling of documents.
  • Overview of the 2 week schedule and daily routine
  • Overview of the common health issues in the area and options
  • Demonstration of a health check and required guidelines and safety precautions
  • Planning session with the team

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Denpasar International Airport (DPS). You must arrive between 00:00 to 23:59 on Sunday.

If arriving outside the pickup times you can book a private transfer and any extra night’s accommodation for an additional fee.

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From the international airport to the Ubud Penestanan accommodation, it takes 1-1.5 hours by road, and to the Pejeng accommodation it takes around 1.5-2 hours. 

Monday to Friday

The project schedule is designed to accommodate the interests and skills of each participant. Not everyone will engage in all program areas, allowing for a customized experience.

Daily Schedule Overview

  • Work Hours: Approximately 4–5 hours per day.
  • Structure: The timing of activities may vary based on the specific program and tasks planned for the day.

General Daily Flow

  1. Morning (Preparation Time)
  • Preparing materials and planning activities for the day.
  • Collaborating with team members to finalize schedules and logistics.
  1. Afternoon (Engaging with Participants)
  • Conducting activities with the women in the program.
  • Providing support, facilitating workshops, or leading discussions.
  1. Flexible Timing
  • Some activities may be scheduled in the morning, depending on the nature of the tasks or participant availability.

Additional Notes

  • The program encourages adaptability and flexibility to ensure a meaningful experience for all participants.
  • Schedules and activities are subject to change based on participant needs and program requirements.

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

  • Visit Tanah Lot temple – A famous Hindu temple perched on a rock formation on the coast of Bali.
  • Explore Ubud – A cultural hub in the center of Bali known for its art galleries, museums, and traditional crafts.
  • Try surfing at Kuta Beach – One of the most popular beaches in Bali with great waves for surfers of all levels.
  • Visit the Tegallalang Rice Terraces – A beautiful and iconic rice terrace located in the Gianyar Regency.
  • Go snorkeling or diving at Nusa Lembongan – A small island located southeast of Bali with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life.
  • Hike Mount Batur – An active volcano located in the north of Bali, offering stunning views from the summit.
  • Watch a traditional Balinese dance performance – Bali is known for its unique and beautiful dance traditions.
  • Relax at a beach club – Bali has many luxurious beach clubs with pools, restaurants, and stunning ocean views.
  • Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – A nature reserve and temple complex in Ubud where you can interact with hundreds of friendly monkeys.
  • Dolphin watching in Lovina – Take a morning boat trip from Lovina Beach to spot dolphins swimming and playing in the ocean.
  • Visit the Banjar Hot Springs – A natural hot spring located in Lovina where you can relax and soak in the warm mineral water.
  • Take a cooking class – Learn how to prepare delicious Balinese dishes and immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.
  • Visit the Munduk Waterfall – A picturesque waterfall located in the Munduk village surrounded by lush greenery and a great spot for hiking.

Minors traveling to Indonesia

Unaccompanied minors traveling to Indonesia are required to have a consent form from their parents/legal guardian in hand. The required documents may include a Consent form for minors and the birth certificate. Please check with the Airline before boarding the flight.

On this project, modest clothing, long sleeves and long trousers or sarongs are recommended for woman.  Clothing needs to cover the knees and shoulders.

*PLEASE NOTE: All participants for the Education, Teaching, Construction, and Turtle Conservation projects, are required to apply for a C6 Social Cultural visa prior to arrival. Participants who have a Visa On Arrival or an E-Visa on Arrival will not be able to participate in these projects. Participants who only attend the culture, adventure, and yoga weeks will be accepted to join the programs with a Visa on Arrival. Going through an online agency or via our local team is the easiest way to obtain the visa. 

  **Exceptions to the C6 visa

Participants can join any program with a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for the following program types:

  • 1-week culture week, plus 1 to 3 week volunteer program
  • 1-week volunteer program

However, it is important to highlight that participants using a VOA must put ‘tourism’ for reason of visit.

We still encourage volunteers to arrive with a C6 visa for all programs. Please note that obtaining and using a VOA is entirely the participant’s responsibility. We cannot be held accountable for any issues or concerns arising from this, as we are obligated to recommend the appropriate visa type for participants joining volunteering projects.

 

Additional Requirements

  • Older participants over 65 years are required to have a medical clearance as proof of their physical fitness as they may perform various activities.
  • Genuine interests and passion for helping others.

  • Excellent time management and self-organizing and a strong desire to take on new challenges and learn as much as possible.

Additional Equipment

Dress Code:

  • Please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, respecting the local culture and avoiding any potential discomfort. Ensure that your attire is not too short, tight, or revealing; your shoulders and legs should be covered.
  • Western-style clothing is completely acceptable as long as it aligns with these local standards.
  • Be thoughtful of the graphics, symbols, or text printed on your clothing, and avoid wearing clothing styles that might be inappropriate especially when visiting temples, and schools during your spare time.

Equipment:

You may bring educational resources about the selected area of study materials that you may use during the teaching plan preparation such as:

  • creative craft books
  • Pictures that may help you in your project.
  • recipe books, videos that can be used
  • Music that can be used for Zumba and aerobics and videos

 

For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link:

ID – Holidays – All Programs

Indonesia has to be one of the most interesting countries in the world for cultural learning for its diverse and sophisticated art forms, such as painting, sculpture, woodcarving, handicrafts, and performing arts. Indonesia has around 300 ethnic groups, each with cultural identities developed over centuries, and influenced by Indian, Arabic, Chinese, and European sources.

Millions of small farmers, farm workers and fishers are unable to tap into the opportunities offered by years of economic growth. They are often geographically isolated and lack access to basic infrastructure and support.

Bali is a Hindu Island, Balinese traditional cultures are still present, making the island charming and beautiful. Traditional Balinese clothing worn by women covers their shoulders and knees, especially, when they go to the temple and when they have a ceremony day.

IVI have a variety of programs designed to immerse volunteers into the local lifestyle in order to experience the unique culture, build life long relationships and benefit the people that need it the most.

Bali is situated just south of the equator. It has a hot and tropical climate year round.

The wet season is from November to March, and the dry season from April to October (although there may still be some showers) The rains usually only last for a few hours, so you will usually still get some sunshine during the day. 

The rainy season brings about humidity and it is generally hot year round, from 20 to 30 degrees. Cooler temperatures can be found up North in the mountain regions. 

Bali culture is incredible, rich in tradition and spirituality which focuses mainly on art and religion, with the two often expressed through each other.  Many Balinese people are an artist of some kind and spend their leisure time working on hobbies and artwork that have been passed down through generations.  

Many public areas, homes and paddy fields are decorated by detailed paintaings, intricate carvings, fine weaving, statues and various artworks. Life in Bali is very much communal and centered around local villages with the community institution or ‘Banjar’ responsible for many aspects of life. The Balinese have a word, “Niskala” which means that which cannot be sensed directly, but can only be felt within.      

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