<h3>What inspired you to work for the Volunteer Safari Initiative?</h3>
<p>My inspiration to work for the Volunteer Safari Initiative comes from a deep passion for the environment and sustainable tourism. Growing up in Kenya, I was surrounded by incredible wildlife and landscapes, which fueled my desire to protect these natural treasures. I believe in the power of community involvement and education in conservation. Seeing the positive impact on wildlife and local communities through our combined efforts is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me motivated every day.</p>
<h3>Describe a typical day at work.</h3>
<p>As the Program Coordinator for the Volunteer Safari Initiative, my day starts with a team briefing where we plan activities and address any immediate concerns. In the morning, I coordinate field activities with volunteers.<br><br>Mid-day, I handle administrative tasks such as project planning and logistics coordination with local partners. I also engage with volunteers, offering support to enhance their experience.<br><br>Afternoons are dedicated to continuing conservation efforts in the field and conducting educational workshops for the community and volunteers. I ensure accurate data collection for ongoing research projects.<br><br>In the evening, we review our achievements and address challenges during a debrief session.  Each day is fulfilling, driven by our goal to positively impact Kenya's natural heritage.</p>
<h3>Why do you do what you do?</h3>
<p>I have very deep passion for the environment and sustainable tourism. My passion to preserve the natural beauty of nature and promote our rich African culture drives me to make a tangible difference in conservation efforts. Working with volunteers and local communities allows me to foster a deeper appreciation for our natural world. Every day, I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future and inspire others to join in this important cause.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1728354637/images2/interviews/SZiKWgtlFsVUQ4gAZvxFo1MiZUHeaO87XgVYLCp0.jpg" alt="Sylvia and peer at a turtle conservation exhibit"><div class="caption"><p>A visit to a turtle conservation in Watamu.</p></div></div>
<h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3>
<p>It's incredibly rewarding to see the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved as we work together to protect Kenya's natural heritage. I also love the opportunity to share knowledge about our rich African culture and environment, fostering a deeper appreciation among volunteers and locals alike. Overall, Knowing that I'm contributing to a sustainable future while inspiring others makes every day fulfilling and meaningful.</p>
<h3>What challenges do you often face, and how do you overcome them?</h3>
<p>Coordinating diverse teams of volunteers is a challenge sometimes. Clear communication and careful planning help ensure everyone is engaged and productive.<br><br>Logistical issues and unexpected changes in field conditions also arise. We have built strong relationships with local partners, and we have contingency plans in place to overcome these challenges.<br><br>Community engagement can be complex due to differing perspectives. Active listening, respect for local viewpoints, and collaboration with community leaders have helped navigate this challenge effectively.<br><br>By staying proactive and adaptable, I successfully manage these challenges and maintain momentum in our conservation efforts.</p>
<h3>What are some current projects you are working on?</h3>
<p>Our current projects span diverse conservation and community initiatives across Kenya:<br> 1. Turtle conservation in Watamu focuses on protecting nesting sites and rehabilitating injured turtles.<br> 2. Monkey conservation in Diani aims to safeguard local primate species through habitat preservation and education.<br> 3. Sports coaching empowers youth through athletics, promoting teamwork and leadership skills.<br> 4. Marine and mangrove conservation efforts preserve coastal ecosystems vital for biodiversity and community livelihoods.<br> 5. Wildlife conservation projects tackle threats to endangered species while promoting sustainable coexistence.<br> 6. School teaching programs enhance education quality and access in underserved communities.<br> 7. Women and youth empowerment initiatives foster economic independence and community leadership, ensuring a sustainable future for all.</p>
<h3>What advice would you give your pre-travel self?</h3>
<p>Before you travel, make sure to prepare wisely:<br>1. Research: Understand your destination's culture, customs, and local laws. This helps you respect local traditions and stay informed about any cultural sensitivities.<br> <br>2. Packing: Pack essentials such as clothing suitable for the local climate, necessary medications, and copies of important documents like your passport and travel insurance details.<br><br>3. Health: Check if you need any vaccinations or medications specific to your destination. Carry a small first-aid kit for minor emergencies.<br><br>4. Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. Use reputable transportation and avoid risky areas, especially at night.<br><br>5. Communication: Inform family or friends about your travel plans and share your itinerary with them. Stay connected through phone or email, especially in case of emergencies.<br><br>6. Respect Local Culture: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language and familiarize yourself with local customs. Respect cultural norms regarding dress and behavior.<br><br>7. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. It provides peace of mind during your trip.<br><br>8. Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts handy, including local authorities, your country's embassy or consulate, and your travel insurance provider.<br><br>9. Money: Exchange currency in advance or use local ATMs for cash withdrawals. Carry a mix of cash and cards for payment flexibility.<br><br>10. Enjoy Your Experience: Embrace the adventure, try new foods, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Traveling is about creating memories and exploring new horizons.<br><br>By preparing ahead and staying informed, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience while respecting and appreciating the destination you visit.</p>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1728356352/images2/interviews/VUQ4V92t3HjgKWQWWiO3xoMXf7ZEjh0rA1oOVB2i.png" alt="Sylvia on the beach in a blue dress"><div class="caption"><p>Beautiful white sandy beaches of Mombasa.</p></div></div>
<h3>Why should someone choose the Volunteer Safari Initiative?</h3>
<p>There are several compelling reasons why someone should choose our organization over our competitors:<br><br>1. Commitment to Impact: We prioritize meaningful impact through our conservation and community development projects. Each initiative is designed to make a tangible difference in preserving Kenya's natural heritage and empowering local communities.<br> <br>2. Expertise and Experience: Our team brings years of experience and expertise in wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, and community engagement. We have a proven track record of successful projects and partnerships.<br><br>3. Comprehensive Programs: We offer a wide range of programs, from turtle and wildlife conservation to sports coaching and community empowerment. This diversity allows volunteers to choose projects that align with their interests and skills.<br><br>4. Local Engagement: We have strong ties with local communities and stakeholders. This ensures that our projects are culturally sensitive, sustainable, and beneficial to the communities we serve.<br><br>5. Personalized Support: Volunteers receive personalized support throughout their journey, from pre-trip planning to on-the-ground assistance. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a safe, rewarding, and enriching experience for every participant.<br><br>6. Ethical and Responsible Practices: We adhere to ethical standards and responsible tourism practices. Our commitment to sustainability guides everything we do, from project planning to daily operations.<br><br>7. Positive Feedback and Reviews: We have received positive feedback and testimonials from past volunteers, highlighting their transformative experiences and the impact of our programs.<br><br>Choosing our organization means choosing a meaningful, ethical, and impactful volunteer experience in Kenya, where your contributions make a lasting difference in conservation and community development.</p>
<h3>What hopes do you have for the future of your organization?</h3>
<p>Looking ahead, I have several hopes for the future of our organization:<br><br>1. Expanded Impact: I hope to expand our conservation and community development initiatives to reach more regions in Kenya and beyond. This includes scaling up our efforts in wildlife conservation, marine protection, and community empowerment.<br><br>2. Sustainability: I aim to strengthen our commitment to sustainability by implementing innovative practices that minimize environmental impact and maximize community benefits. This includes promoting eco-friendly tourism practices and enhancing local livelihoods.<br><br>3. Enhanced Partnerships: I look forward to forging stronger partnerships with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations. Collaborative efforts are key to achieving long-term conservation goals and sustainable development.<br><br>4. Empowered Communities: I hope to see empowered communities taking ownership of conservation initiatives and benefiting from improved livelihoods, education, and healthcare services.<br><br>5. Global Awareness and Engagement: I aspire to raise global awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Engaging more volunteers and supporters from around the world will amplify our impact and advocacy efforts.<br><br>6. Continuous Learning and Innovation: I envision a culture of continuous learning and innovation within our organization, where we adapt to new challenges and opportunities in conservation and community development.<br><br>7. Inspiring Future Generations: Ultimately, I hope that our work inspires future generations to become stewards of the environment and advocates for sustainable practices, ensuring a brighter and more resilient future for our planet.</p>
<div class="awesome-image left-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1728354639/images2/interviews/tk0Y4C4BfotSlnZLftBRQG4LOSJQskhqe1i31SrB.jpg" alt="Sylvia sitting on an examination table"><div class="caption"><p>At work during lunch hour.</p></div></div>
<h3>What is the Volunteer Safari Initiative’s mission and how do you continue to work toward it?</h3>
<p>Our mission is to empower Kenyan communities through meaningful cultural exchange and the dedicated efforts of international volunteers. At the heart of our organization lies a commitment to environmental conservation, poverty eradication, healthcare, education, and sports coaching.<br><br>Through collaborative projects and initiatives, we aim to preserve Kenya's natural heritage while promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local livelihoods. Volunteers play a pivotal role in our mission, bringing diverse skills and perspectives that contribute to impactful solutions and lasting change.<br><br>In environmental conservation, we focus on safeguarding Kenya's rich biodiversity through initiatives such as wildlife and marine conservation, mangrove restoration, and sustainable agriculture practices. By engaging local communities in these efforts, we foster a sense of stewardship and resilience against environmental challenges.<br><br>Poverty eradication is central to our mission as we work towards enhancing economic opportunities and improving access to essential services. Through initiatives in micro-enterprise development, vocational training, and community-based healthcare programs, we empower individuals and communities to build sustainable futures.<br><br>Education is a cornerstone of our work, aiming to improve educational outcomes through school teaching programs, literacy initiatives, and skills development workshops. By investing in education, we equip future generations with the knowledge and tools to thrive in a rapidly changing world.<br><br>Sports coaching promotes physical fitness and teamwork, instills valuable life skills, and fosters community cohesion. Through sports programs, we encourage leadership, resilience, and positive social behavior among youth, empowering them to become agents of change in their communities.<br><br>Together with our dedicated volunteers and committed partners, we strive to create a more equitable and sustainable future for Kenyan communities. By leveraging international volunteer efforts and fostering cultural exchange, we believe in the power of collaboration to drive positive social impact and transformative change.</p>
<h3>What do you hope participants take away from your programs?</h3>
<p>Our volunteer safari initiative aims to provide volunteers with opportunities to immerse themselves in new cultures, actively engage in conservation efforts, and enjoy the beauty of nature. This experience will broaden their cultural understanding and foster a sense of environmental stewardship and appreciation for natural landscapes.</p>
<h3>How do you help support participants?</h3>
<p>We support our volunteers by ensuring comprehensive logistics, comfortable accommodation, and nutritious meals throughout their stay. Additionally, we provide 24/7 emergency support to guarantee their safety and well-being. Moreover, we facilitate connections with organizations that align with their interests, enhancing their involvement and impact in their chosen fields.</p>
<h3></h3>
<div class="awesome-image right-aligned wrap-mobile" ><img src="https://images2.goabroad.com/image/upload/v1728354640/images2/interviews/kddRXblzcgzMdqXynCu9ljIwK6SJs5qUmT4HbOD0.jpg" alt="Sylvia in front of a trek sign"><div class="caption"><p>At the office.</p></div></div>
<h3>If you could participate in one of the Volunteer Safari Initiative's programs, where would you go and what would you do?</h3>
<p>If I could participate in one of our organization's programs, I would choose to go to an animal conservancy. Given my passion for wildlife conservation, I would engage in activities such as monitoring animal behavior, restoring habitats, and supporting anti-poaching efforts. This hands-on experience would allow me to contribute directly to the protection and preservation of wildlife.</p>
<h3>Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?</h3>
<p>Traveling to other countries and experiencing different cultures is vital for several reasons:<br><br><strong><em>Expands Horizons:</em></strong> Experiencing various lifestyles, customs, and traditions enhances our understanding and appreciation of the world, encouraging open-mindedness and empathy.<br><br><strong><em>Fosters Personal Development:</em></strong> Navigating unfamiliar environments and interacting with diverse people improves problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and self-confidence.<br><br><strong><em>Encourages Cultural Exchange:</em></strong> Immersing in new cultures fosters mutual respect and understanding, helping to dispel stereotypes and build connections between communities.<br><br><strong><em>Enriches Knowledge:</em></strong> Learning about the history, art, cuisine, and traditions of different cultures broadens our knowledge and sparks new ideas and perspectives.<br><br><strong><em>Raises Global Awareness:</em></strong> Experiencing life in different parts of the world increases awareness of global issues and can inspire individuals to contribute to solving these challenges.<br><br><strong><em>Improves Social Skills:</em></strong> Interacting with people from diverse backgrounds enhances communication abilities and cultural sensitivity, which are beneficial in both personal and professional life.<br><br>In essence, traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures helps create a more connected and harmonious global community.</p>
<h3>Why do you think learning a new language is important?</h3>
<p>Learning a new language is crucial because it improves communication, offers deeper cultural insights, and boosts cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving. It also enhances career prospects, enriches travel experiences, and promotes personal growth. For many, it connects them to their heritage. Overall, being multilingual opens up a world of opportunities and broadens your perspective.</p>
<h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3>
<p>To me, meaningful travel is about more than just sightseeing. It's about immersing myself in new cultures, forming genuine connections with local people, and understanding their way of life. It involves being mindful of my impact on the environment and communities, supporting sustainable practices, and giving back whenever possible. Ultimately, meaningful travel enriches my life by increasing personal growth, expanding my horizons, and creating lasting memories that are rooted in deeper experiences.</p>


Sylvia Mokeira Samwel

Get to know the people behind Volunteer Safari Initiative! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Sylvia Mokeira Samwel.

Sylvia Mokeira Samwel | Volunteer Safari Initiative

Volunteer Safari Initiative Staff Interview with Sylvia Mokeira Samwel

Mombasa, renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning coastal beauty, also faces significant social challenges. Many children here are orphaned due to various circumstances, leaving them vulnerable and in dire need of support and care.

As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in enhancing their lives. Your responsibilities may include teaching, helping with homework, organizing play activities, providing emotional support, and assisting with daily tasks. Every moment you spend with these children contributes to their sense of stability, confidence, and hope for a brighter future.

This Childcare Project is not just about giving, it’s also about personal growth and cultural exchange. You’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local community, learn about Kenyan culture, and form lasting bonds with the children and fellow volunteers. The experiences you gain here will be rewarding and transformative, leaving you with a deeper understanding of the world and a stronger sense of purpose.

Orphanage Childcare Volunteer in Mombasa

Welcome to the heart of Kenya’s rural education landscape, where every international participant plays a crucial role in shaping the future of young minds. As a volunteer teacher at a rural primary school, you’ll embark on a transformative journey, venturing into communities where educational resources are scarce but determination and enthusiasm abound.

In these rustic settings, your passion for education becomes a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to knowledge and opportunity for eager young learners. Join us as we delve into the essence of rural Kenya, where each lesson taught is a step towards empowerment, and every smile exchanged is a testament to the profound impact of education.

Rural School Community Support in Kilifi, Kenya

This is an extraordinary opportunity to make a meaningful difference in preserving one of Africa’s most captivating primate species. Nestled along the stunning coastline of Diani, our project focuses on safeguarding the threatened colobus monkey population and their fragile forest habitat. 

Volunteers immerse themselves in the lush surroundings of Diani’s forests, working alongside dedicated conservationists to monitor colobus populations, conduct habitat assessments, and implement community-based initiatives. Through this project, you don't just contribute to the protection of these enchanting creatures but also engage with local communities to raise awareness and promote coexistence. 

Join us in this vital conservation effort and become a steward of Diani’s natural heritage, leaving a lasting impact on the future of colobus monkeys and their forest home.

Colobus Monkey Conservation in Diani, Kenya

The Turtle Conservation Volunteer Program in Watamu offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the protection and preservation of endangered sea turtles along Kenya’s pristine coastline. As a volunteer, you work closely with local conservationists in Watamu. Your duties include monitoring turtle nests, assisting with hatchling releases, conducting beach patrols to protect nesting sites, and participating in community education initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation.

Beyond fieldwork, you will immerse yourself in the local culture, live in a volunteer house with other international participants, and experience the rich biodiversity of the Watamu Marine National Park. The program is ideal for those passionate about marine or environmental conservation, or anyone looking to make a tangible difference in the fight against marine pollution and habitat destruction. 

Join us in safeguarding the future of sea turtles and enriching your understanding of marine ecosystems.

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