Dubai Cares, part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced the return of its Volunteer Globally initiative to Malawi from June 6 to 15, 2020. Interested volunteers can apply today through the UAE Volunteers Platform.
This year’s edition will see 15 volunteers travel to a remote village in Malawi to work alongside the local community in setting the foundation for a new community-based school. Volunteers will also participate in cultural education workshops to gain an understanding of Malawi, its heritage, and its people.
The initiative is open to UAE residents aged 21 years and above, and applications can be made via www.volunteers.ae until 10:00 am on Monday 24th February, 2020. Fifty applicants will be shortlisted based on the response provided through their application, with priority given to those who apply first. The 50 shortlisted volunteers will be invited to a one-on-one interview with Dubai Cares between March 8 and 10 before the 15 successful applicants are chosen.
Commenting on the 2020 edition, Abdulla Ahmed Alshehhi, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai Cares said: “It’s a real pleasure to announce the return of Volunteer Globally to Malawi this year and provide the UAE community with an unmissable opportunity to help bring quality education to young people in this southeastern African country. This initiative has always been a source of immense pride for us because each year we see the tremendous positive impact our volunteers have on a community in need. More than a rewarding opportunity to give back, Volunteer Globally provides participants with an enlightening experience that opens their eyes to new cultures and experiences.”
During the week-long Volunteer Globally initiative, participants join together with members of the host community to dig, mix concrete, make bricks, and carry water. Meanwhile, the cultural workshops enable volunteers to interact with families to learn about the local values and norms, forming a closer bond with those the initiative seeks to support.
Prior to travelling to Malawi, the selected volunteers will be provided with a comprehensive briefing to explain the country’s socio-economic background and understand the activities due to be completed. Dubai Cares will fund the trip for participants, including visa, travel, accommodation, food and beverages, travel supplies, and safety equipment. Volunteers will be required to cover the cost of mandatory vaccinations, malaria tablets, and medical checkups.