The experience was incredible! This was my first international volunteer project and having spent a lot of time to find the right volunteer companies I am very pleased to have chosen IVHQ. As a solo female I felt safe and recieved sufficient information for a successful trip.
Upon arrival, there was an orientation where all of the volunteers met and had cultural awareness sessions, got their homestay locations etc. This was also an opportunity to hear from other people who had been in the country prior (not necessarily on projects to quickly learn where has good prices, sightseeing etc).
Staying in the homestay with a local family gave insights which wouldn't have been available had we stayed in hostels etc. I was able to understand Nepalese culture, eat their food and join in with their way of life. It was really eye opening to notice what we take for granted - things like washing machines, AC and even strong carrier bags!
The project itself comprised of women aged 16-60 and the teaching takes place on the roof of a ladies house as unfortunately they dont have a school. The women are so eager to learn and desperately need materials and support. There is no curriculum so you plan the lessons yourself based upon your assessment of the group and we were able to cover maths, english, using a calculator, dancing (just for fun!), singing and understand the challenges faced by the women with lack of domestic abuse support and period poverty.
It really has been an emotionally awakening experience and I would fully recommend anyone who is debating, to go ahead and just do it!
