Malealea Development Trust

You live in a shared flat with a second volunteer on the secure grounds of Malealea Lodge. No rent is charged. The accommodation is basic. A solar system provides electricity during the day for lights, phone and laptop, and the water supply is reliable. Kitchen, showers and toilets are in a shared facility and meet a clean, simple standard. Alternatively, you can stay with a host family.

Telecommunications depend on the transmitters in the village region, which can sometimes be down for several days.

After arriving at Malealea Lodge there is an introduction and orientation phase: you get to know your accommodation, the area, local customs, safety aspects and other rules. Visa and registration matters are also dealt with, as a long-term residence permit can only be applied for in the country.

The focus is on learning from each other every day, cultural exchange, observing lessons and your own teaching. Your tasks: assisting the IT trainer, plus a second focus of your choice from the Development Trust’s areas – education, infrastructure, health and well-being, environment and micro development.

You usually start by accompanying Khotso Au, head of the Malealea Development Trust, before taking on your own tasks. These must not count towards grades or replace a paid job. A concrete work plan is drawn up after the first few weeks, taking your experience and interests into account.

Working hours are usually 40 hours a week, depending on the needs of the project. Sometimes work at weekends or in the evenings is necessary. Holiday entitlement follows local conditions but is at least 20 days per year.

Visas for South Africa require extensive applications with lots of supporting documents. Volunteers receive a detailed information sheet. The association is not responsible for the very time-consuming visa applications for South Africa.