ICS volunteer Ibraham Kamara has a real zest for development. Born and bred in Sierra Leone, this young father has seen his country through war and Ebola. Even though his own schooling has been stilted he was able to finish his diploma and complete an ICS placement.

John's lifelong ambition to volunteer abroad was realised at 60, when he was offered a three-month stint in Cambodia with VSO. 

VSO volunteers have returned to Sierra Leone after ebola and are working to rebuild health services after such a huge trauma.

British volunteer Stephanie Green spent two years in Ghana working to help Shea nut processors become financially independent businesswomen. She returned earlier this year- and was delighted to see that the women are thriving, independent of VSO support.

“You can only do your bit. But that’s enough” says serial volunteer Mira. She has been supporting VSO for 18 years, having set off on her first placement at the age of 63. 

Volunteer Peter Okoth is working with farmers, introducing new techniques to increase yields and incomes whilst conserving water. 

Volunteer Jo Doyne is based in western Rwanda, supporting teachers to provide appropriate teaching to children with special needs. She talks to us about her work with Ngwino Nawe, a special needs school.

“Back in the UK, I would never get the breadth of experience I’ve had in Malawi.”

"You have a role of inspiring and building confidence."

"The confidence I have gained from this experience is something that will definitely help me"