Welcome to the only place in Zanzibar where children with physical and/or intellectual disabilities don’t just learn, they’re truly encouraged to dream.
This project is so much more than just a school. It’s a space filled with hope, growth, cuddles (lots of them), and the kind of future every child deserves.
From adorable toddlers to confident young adults (and everyone in between), the Zanzibar Project supports around 45 children each day, ranging in age from 1 to around 30 years old. Children are grouped based on their needs and stage of development, including a kindy class, a primary school group, a group for children with multiple disabilities, an advanced learners group, and a 16+ group.
And if that’s not impressive enough, these legends don’t just receive an education. They also receive physiotherapy, medical care, skills training, and day programs all under one roof. Yes, really.
For those ready to trade the classroom for something hands-on, the project also runs a Vocational Training Centre. Here, young people learn to make candles (with beautifully scented wax), produce soap, work with textiles, garden, sew, and a personal favourite... work in their very own juice bar. Smoothie, anyone?
As a volunteer, from Tuesday to Saturday, you’ll become part of this vibrant world filled with small wins, big smiles and deep purpose. One thing’s for sure: you won’t just make a difference, you’ll feel it too.
This project truly believes in the power of people. So if you think you’re “just here to help” think again. You’ll be taken seriously. The team will take a good look at your talents, interests and passions, and together you’ll create a plan that suits you. Whether that’s with a glitter glue gun in hand or a camera on your shoulder.
Volunteers support local teachers by helping with lessons (yes, including ABCs and counting to 10 with a big smile), giving one-on-one support to children who need a bit of extra attention, and assisting with creative activities where glitter, glue and imagination are free to flow. Helping kids with reading, writing, and social skills is also a key part of your role.
And then there’s the Vocational Training Centre. It’s still in its early stages so think of it as a diamond in the rough. Your help is especially needed here. If you have experience in vocational education or developing training programs, you could make a real impact.
Are you the kind of person who always captures the perfect shot, or loves creating videos that move people to tears (or laughter)? We definitely need you. Great content is essential to help make the project visible and keep it running. So get your camera ready!
Your day starts with a relaxed breakfast at the volunteer house, because you can’t make the world a better place on an empty stomach. Then, full of fresh energy, you’ll head off to school to help get everything ready. Around 8:00 am, the first children arrive in the colourful school bus and that’s when the day really kicks off. Teeth brushing is part of the morning routine, and by 9:00 am, it’s time to get started.
Lessons run for 30 minutes and are short and sweet, just enough time to keep the kids focused and having fun. Subjects include reading, writing, maths, geography, science, sport, creative play, yoga, and even acrobatics. Life here is never boring.
Until 1:00 pm, the kids are busy learning, exploring and laughing. After that, they head home on the school bus and it’s time for lunch. But don’t relax just yet, after lunch, you’ll meet with the local teachers to reflect on the day and prepare for the next one. Thursdays are planning days, where the team preps the following week’s lessons, and on Fridays, you’ll report back on how the week has gone.
In the afternoons, there’s also time to work on school assignments (if you have any), or to contribute to your own project, something to make the centre even more fun, beautiful or efficient. Nothing is required, but your input is always appreciated.
Your workday usually wraps up between 3:00 and 4:00 pm. Then it’s time to relax, go for a swim, head to the beach, or unwind under a palm tree with a book. At 6:30 pm, dinner is served back at the volunteer house.
It’s a day full of meaning, connection, and a tropical breeze.
June 2025 is calling!
Craving more than just sun and sea this winter? We’re on the lookout for passionate volunteers to join us in June 2025 for a meaningful project in Zanzibar. Whether you're into creativity, teaching, filmmaking, or simply have a big heart for supporting children with additional needs, your energy can make a real impact. Got that itch to do something good and soak up the laid-back vibes of island life? Save the date. Pack your bags, and experience something unforgettable!
Stephanie
Deze ervaring heeft mij op verschillende manieren rijker gemaakt, maar eenmaal terug in Nederland merk ik dat vooral het vermogen om te kunnen relativeren enorm waardevol is.
Kim
Ik heb een ontzettend fijne, leuke en leerzame tijd gehad en ik zou het iedereen aanraden om dit ook te gaan doen!
Romy
Ik vond de begeleiding gedurende 5 weken echt heel fijn. Dus mijn advies als je twijfelt is gewoon doen! Hoe mooi is het als je zo'n project kunt ondersteunen, want alle hulp is hard nodig.
Dorien
Met tranen in mijn ogen heb ik afscheid genomen en mijzelf de belofte gemaakt dat ik ooit nog eens terugkom op dit prachtige project.
Tuesday to Friday: 8:30 AM – 3:00/4:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday and Monday: Days off
You will collaborate with local teachers at the school and the women working at the Vocational Training Centre. We host several groups of volunteers throughout the year, so you'll (hopefully) never be alone.
Ellen is the local project leader. She is the founder of the project and is present most of the time. Besides managing the project, she also runs the associated guesthouse and is a mother of two children.
The primary languages spoken at the project are English and Dutch. The contact person, Ellen, is Dutch.
The project is closed annually in May and from Christmas until mid-January.
Volunteers stay in the volunteer house, which has several double rooms and a shared bathroom. It's also possible to stay in the guesthouse (private or shared) for an additional fee.
The project is located on the same premises as the volunteer accommodation, so no transportation is needed.
If you have extra space in your luggage and would like to bring something for the project, it would be greatly appreciated. Please consult with us about useful and practical items to bring, as the project has a wishlist.
Volunteers can be picked up from the airport (there is only one airport in Zanzibar) or from the ferry terminal. Arrivals are scheduled every Monday between 8:00am and 7:00pm. If you arrive, for example, on Sunday night, we can arrange a hotel for you. The pickup service is included in the price. For the return journey, we can arrange a taxi for you, but this will be at your own expense.
Explore additional trips to see what you can do in your free time! We have some truly beautiful excursions for your leisure. And since you're in such a stunning destination, it's certainly enjoyable to see more of the country!
Ellen is the contact person in Zanzibar.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and commit to a minimum stay of four weeks. The Zanzibar project seeks dedicated individuals with backgrounds in healthcare or education, such as physiotherapists, social workers, or special education teachers. This initiative is not suited for those looking for a party-centric experience; instead, it is ideal for individuals who are serious about making a meaningful contribution and are prepared to work diligently.
Passion for Community Care: A genuine enthusiasm for supporting children with disabilities and enhancing their quality of life. While prior experience in healthcare or social work is advantageous, a sincere desire to help is paramount.
Initiative and Proactivity: The ability to work independently, take initiative, and devise creative solutions to challenges is crucial.
Patience and Empathy: Understanding and patience are essential, especially when progress may be gradual.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs and traditions, along with a willingness to learn from the culture, is vital for a successful collaboration.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Volunteers should be prepared to adjust to varying physical and work environments in Tanzania.
Communication Skills: Effective communication is key to fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Team Spirit: Collaboration with local staff and fellow volunteers from diverse backgrounds is essential to achieve our goals.
As a volunteer, you'll engage in activities such as arts and crafts, games, music, and movement exercises tailored for children with disabilities. Working alongside local staff, you'll help create a safe and supportive environment. This experience offers personal and professional growth, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to make lasting memories.
If you're passionate about community care and ready to dedicate yourself to a challenging yet rewarding environment, this day program in Zanzibar is the perfect opportunity. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of these children.
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
4 Weeks of Volunteering: $1749
Each Additional Week: $299
Before Departure:
Online introductory meeting.
Information package detailing Tanzanian culture and customs, along with a comprehensive preparation checklist, including insurance, financial matters, and travel tips.
Pre-departure training session.
Assistance with obtaining a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).
Access to the online community.
Support with your visa application.
Assistance with booking your flight (upon request).
During Your Trip:
Airport transfer to the project site, including one night's hotel accommodation.
On-site orientation.
Assistance with visa extension (if necessary).
Ongoing support throughout your stay.
Accommodation in the volunteer house.
Three meals per day (on weekdays).
Upon Return:
Evaluation session.
Certificate of participation (upon request).
Opportunity to remain active in our WhatsApp community.
Memories to last a lifetime!
Airfare
Vaccinations
Visa
Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
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!
