This foundation supports people and children with diabetes at an early stage. It consists of a multidisciplinary team of experts, including a case manager, psychologist, medical pedicurist, social worker, pre-dialysis nurse, and doctor. It is a collaboration between the Diabetes Education Foundation Suriname (SDES) and the Ministry of Public Health.
The activities volunteers can participate in are usually aligned with the organization's objectives. Activities include foot examinations and checks, blood pressure and glucose monitoring, treatment for diabetic wound care, and educating patients on how to care for wounds at home.
A workday starts at 7:00am, though for volunteers it usually begins at 8:00am, unless otherwise agreed. A work schedule will be created together with the volunteer, or the volunteer will adapt to the existing daily structure.
Vrijwilliger in Suriname
Dus weet je het nog niet zeker, schrijf je in! Je maakt herinneringen en vrienden voor het leven. Gewoon doen ;)
Aline vrijwilliger in Suriname
Ik ben ontzettend dankbaar voor deze mooie en leerzame ervaring op een plek waar vrijwilligers hard nodig zijn om de kinderen net dat extra beetje aandacht, hulp en liefde te geven.
Luna vrijwilliger in Suriname
Ik kan dit echt iedereen aanraden! Ik heb echt een geweldige tijd gehad!
8:00am - 3:00pm (Other times can be arranged by agreement)
There is a head supervisor. Staff with permanent contracts are present, as well as interns and other volunteers. Personnel includes qualified doctors; diabetic nurses/wound carers; wound assistants.
Dutch is also spoken in Suriname.
There are occasionally special public holidays. Volunteers are free to decide how they want to spend these days and are welcome to take part in any activities offered.
The volunteer house is well secured and has Wi-Fi, a laundry area, a kitchen, a swimming pool, and common areas for relaxation. The rooms have air conditioning, wardrobes, and double beds. Bathrooms and toilets with hot and cold water are available. Not all rooms have private bathrooms and toilets. Rooms are not shared unless requested by volunteers. The volunteer house has a housekeeper.
Volunteers get around by bike or public transport.
If you have some extra space in your bag and would like to bring something for the project, it is greatly appreciated. Please check with us first about what useful items to bring.
We use a reliable, regular taxi service with whom we have set agreements. Your name and flight number are provided in advance. We stay in constant phone contact with the taxi service. Volunteers arrive at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (Zanderij).
Check out the additional trips available to see what you can do in your free time! We have some really great excursions for your downtime. And since you’re in such a beautiful destination, it’s definitely worth exploring more of the country!
Rita is the contact person in Suriname. She is a driven 57-year-old woman with qualities such as patience, reliability, warmth, kindness, perseverance, determination, peacefulness, and a love of safety. She is the mother of two adult sons.
Her background is in financial administration, but she currently works as a medical assistant in the endoscopy department at a hospital with a gastroenterologist (stomach, intestines, and liver specialist).
In her free time, she runs a literacy centre where she supports young people with homework help and much more. She is also the contact person for Volunteer Worldwide.
In short: a very amazing woman with strong willpower, focus, and dedication.
For this project, we are looking for volunteers who want to support people and children with diabetes in its early stages. You will work alongside a multidisciplinary team to improve the health and education of patients.
This project is suitable for volunteers aged 17 and over.
Affinity with Healthcare: Enthusiasm for medical care is essential. A background in nursing is an advantage.
Initiative and Proactivity: Being able to work independently and take initiative is important.
Patience and Empathy: Being understanding and patient when working with patients.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs and traditions.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Adjusting to different circumstances in Suriname.
Communication Skills: Good collaboration with local staff and other volunteers.
Team Spirit: Cooperation is key.
As a volunteer, you will assist with foot checks, blood pressure and glucose monitoring, and education about diabetic wound care. Working hours are usually from 8:00am to 3:00pm but can be adjusted by arrangement.
Your stay in Suriname offers opportunities for personal and professional growth, discovering new cultures, and unforgettable experiences.
If you have a passion for healthcare and are willing to commit to a challenging environment, this project in Suriname is perfect for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the quality of life for people living with diabetes.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
2 weeks: $1057
3 weeks: $1595
Each additional week: $299
*All prices are in AUD.
Before Departure
Online introductory meeting
Information pack with details about the culture and customs in Suriname, as well as a checklist of all necessary preparations, including info on insurance, money matters, and travel tips
Pre-departure training
Assistance with obtaining a Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Access to the online community
Help with your visa application
Help booking your flight (on request)
During Your Trip
Airport transfer to the project site
On-site orientation
Assistance with visa extension (if needed)
Support throughout your entire stay
Accommodation in the volunteer house
After Your Trip
Evaluation session
Certificate (on request)
Opportunity to stay active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Airfare
Vaccinations
Visa
Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Meals
Travel insurance
Welkom op onze website! Mocht je iets niet kunnen vinden of wil je ons iets vragen stuur dan even een berichtje via WhatsApp. We helpen je gelijk verder!
