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African Impact
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African Impact

9.06 (2,855)Verified40 Programs

Why choose African Impact?

African Impact pioneered responsible volunteer travel in Africa in 2004 and has since grown into the largest provider of volunteer projects on the continent. Our projects are developed hand in hand with local communities to ensure the work we do is ethical, responsible, and relevant to the needs of those communities. We help create a strong foundation by empowering individuals and communities t...

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African Impact Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.06

Total Reviews

2,855
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Volunteering in South Africa was a dream come true!

by: Maria Villalvazo - MexicoProgram: Teaching and Childcare Volunteering with African Impact
9

I am beyond grateful for my 1-month volunteer experience with African Impact in Cape Town. From the moment I arrived, the warmth and professionalism of the team made it unforgettable. When I first arrived at the airport, Thulani, the program manager, was already waiting, and ready to give us an engaging introduction to the history and scenery of Cape Town. After a 20+ min drive we arrived at The Lenox hostel. The Lenox became my home for the month, and the staff made sure it felt that way. Everyone was very kind and welcoming at all time. I got a bunk bed in a shared room with four amazing fellow volunteers from different countries. The room was very spacious and comfortable. The facilities were bright and welcoming, with breathtaking views of Lion’s Head and Table Mountain from the lounge balcony. I joined the Early Education program, which I highly recommend if you love working with children and creating engaging learning experiences. Through this program I worked with four different nonprofits located in Khayelitsha, their work is centered around fostering children and youth development. Our schedule was almost the same every day; breakfast with all the volunteers, then going out to support an org. in the morning, coming back to the Lenox for lunch (amazing fresh and delicious food by the way) and then going back to support another org. in the afternoon. Our day concluded around 5 pm, after documenting our experiences, and preparing for the next day. Then dinner time, a great time to get to know the other volunteers and share stories. The rest of the afternoon was free time for us to unwind and enjoy visiting places around Cape Town or do a sightseeing activity planned by the staff. The most rewarding part was getting to work directly with nonprofits like Ikasi Soccer School and foster care homes like Fikelele. My favorite task while on project was to sing and play with the kids. Witnessing the impact of our efforts and the joy on the children’s faces are core memories from this experience. I don’t think I can put into words how fulfilling this experience was for me. This experience taught me so much about collaboration, creativity, and the joy of giving back. Volunteering with African Impact was life changing. It’s a core memory filled with friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. I wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a difference while exploring the vibrant culture of Cape Town.

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African Impact responded to this review2024-12-30 15:36:07

Love your video Maria! Really captures the essence of volunteering with us in Cape Town :)

Cultural Visit in KhayelitshaActivity Time at Baphumelele
Maria Villalvazo video
10

I enjoyed my time with the African impact team in Livingstons, Zambia. The team are professional, supportive and friendly. They are willing at all times to help out both in terms of during project activities and during leisure time. They take their work extremely seriously and are passionate about what they do

Phenomenal Experience Inspiring people

by: Vimala Donna SpenceProgram: Sports Coaching Volunteering with African Impact
10

African Impact Livingstone is doing an incredible job in promoting sustainable and community development and empowerment. Their initiatives not only enhance local livelihoods but also offer cultural exchange and awareness. The dedication, hard work and research of the staff in supporting education, health, sports, conservation, medical, parenting and much more is truly inspiring. Volunteers have the opportunity of assisting, helping and getting stuck in /involved with a variety of projects. I volunteered to help children appreciate the benefits and attributes of sport, games and fitness. Team work, having fun and respecting the rules of sport. I’ve had the most precious experiences with over 100 school children of various Year Grades and ages. Resources and equipment is limited within every project so when volunteering don’t expect to use or have resources and materials, medical supplies & equipment as you may have in your home country. Respect the hard work provided and incredible enjoyment and benefits children and the community receive. The food at the centre is varied nutritious with limited spending budget, and accommodation basic but clean provides everything you need. Hot water showers and electricity supply is also limited but again if you have western world ideals perhaps this isn’t for you. Personally I’ve had the most incredible four weeks of my life and already organising my return trip in 2025. The surroundings in Livingstone provide what you need. Activities like Chobe safari, village tour, fabric market or thrilling activities are also offered via Victoria falls Backpackers reception. African Impact staff, Sports coach, management, cooks, groundsmen and housekeepers, security and community staff/drivers are all special human beings that care & ensure your stay is comfortable and suitable. The backpackers bar is both quiet and lively when required. The pool a refreshing necessity in the Zambian heat. Keep up the fantastic work;your positive impact is making a real difference in the communities you serve and inspiration to myself and other volunteers. I will miss you all and thank you for being YOU, beautiful inside and out. Much love Vimala ❤️

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Frequently Asked Questions

Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Kylie Taute

Interviewed in 2014

Staff

What inspired you to travel abroad?

I manage our East Africa project portfolio (Kenya, Tanzania & Zanzibar) and also a few projects in Zimbabwe. 

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Alyse Umbinetti

Participated in 2013

Alumni

I was on two different projects with African Impact. I spent four weeks in Livingstone, Zambia. I was on the education project for one week, and the special education program for three weeks. Then I went to St. Lucia, South Africa, and spent nine weeks on the community project. 

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Stephanie Chase

Participated in 2014

Alumni

I always wanted to go to Africa and be actively involved with the people.

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Awards

Check out awards and recognitions African Impact has received

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in Zambia 2025
Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in South Africa 2025
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer AbroadTop Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022