Sinethemba Street KidsYouth Development South Africa

£ 665

$ 951

€ 739

• Be a mentor for kids between the ages of 4 and 18 and youth up to 25 with problem backgrounds
• Teach the kids and youth literacy and numeracy and other important skills
• Make a difference to the lives of the street children and show them that someone cares
• Immerse yourself in a vibey, friendly and safe South African township
• Learn about African culture and customs from the local Xhosa and Zulu residents

"SINETHEMBA- we have hope!" Is a youth development program run for kids and disadvantaged youth between the ages of 6 and 25. These children no-longer go to school for various reasons. Some of them have problem families and no homes- they live on the street and in the hope to find money and food. This centre was established in order to keep the kids occupied and off the street, to give them a second chance in life by providing education opportunities, skills training and daily meals and showers.

Have a look at our daily project updates

Apart from a positive, open minded enthusiasm, not much!

No experience is necessary and we accept volunteers from any background. Volunteers with a conservation, sports or community development background may consider joining this program for work related experience.

Volunteers should be physically fit and mentally positive!

Useful Skills: We realize that each volunteer that joins us has different skills and varying specialties to offer. Should you feel that you can contribute beyond our itinerary, please inform us so we can use your skills accordingly. (For example art and drama is always needed as is subject knowledge such as maths and literacy education).

Volunteers fit into the time table structured by the project manager and other volunteers. This includes sports education, art, literacy and other basic subjects etc. However, volunteers do have opportunities to start projects themselves and often, when other staff are otherwise occupied, volunteers need to take initiative to sit down with the kids and work with them on individual levels. This could be a reading lesson, physical education, cooking or simply a friendly chat to show you care and encourage the kids.

The Garden Route is situated on the east coast of South Africa and is true to its name – being world famous for its diversity, beauty and mild climate. Spectacular scenery includes a pristine coastline, huge wetlands, salt marshes, rivers, mountains crowded closely to the shoreline, tall indigenous forests, vividly coloured wild flowers and the unique fynbos flora.

Projects are based in various areas of the Garden Route, including near the popular holiday destinations of Mossel Bay and Knysna. Both have all amenities that you will need and are situated along a picturesque coastline.

You will be based in simple, clean, dorm style accommodation at our cosy volunteers house, located in Knysna, as well as on-site at the various reserves and national parks. Private, twin or family rooms are available on request.

Should you wish to travel outside of the project during your stay, we will happily recommend safe, comfortable accommodation in the Garden Route.

All meals will be provided – all healthy, hearty food – some ready made and some do-it-yourself.

• Breakfast: Light selection of breads, cereals, fruits, tea, coffee and juice
• Lunch: Sandwiches, salads, pitas, bread rolls or wraps
• Dinner: A few ready cooked dinners and the rest left to your own tastes. All ingredients and menu plans will be provided.

You can expect a range of many different dishes. All meals are prepared according to your specific tastes as best as possible. Specific food requirements, however, are only subject to request.