Be the Change Worldwide

Introduction

Be the Change Worldwide derives inspiration from the internationally esteemed Indian Philosopher Mahatma Gandhi who said “Be the change you want to see in the world.” We harness the power of volunteerism and aim to connect the developed world with the developing world. We believe in the power and importance of committing time and energy into a developmental project.

Be the Change Worldwide specialises in Gap Year experiences, placing volunteers from all over the world into key developmental projects in under-resourced schools within underprivileged communities. Our projects contribute to social and economic development and address priority areas such as education, moral regeneration and social cohesion.

Our vision is to produce a new generation of healthy, innovative, values-based and responsible young community leaders ensuring a sustainable future for developing nations around the world. Be the Change Worldwide is constantly striving to make a meaningful contribution in areas such as the advancement of education, relief of poverty, promotion of good health in developing communities. We achieve this in particular but not exclusively by providing equipment, resources, services, financial support, and human resources.

Be the Change Worldwide Approach

Our approach is one of co-investment and community involvement, where local communities and/or local organisations are also encouraged to commit time, energy and basic resources to the projects. Projects are owned by local communities and/or local organisations and a stringent operational code of conduct is always adhered too. This encourages a two-way commitment and investment both from the local community and/or local organisation as well as the volunteer or donor.

Our model avoids creating a mindset of dependency but rather builds self sustainability within under-resourced schools and communities. The intended beneficiaries of our projects are young people who have inherently been afforded very little exceptional opportunity. Working with local communities, we aim to empower underprivileged young people with the essential life skills to become future values-based leaders of development in their own communities.

Types of Projects

Be the Change Worldwide Projects

Be the Change Worldwide is a community development organisation speacilising in working with under-privileged young people and rural communities. We organise a wide range of projects which include:

Teaching and Education
Performing Arts
Sports Coaching
HIV/AIDS Awareness
Environmental Awareness
Care Work
Construction and Renovation

In Cape Town, South Africa we also have the following exciting adventure projects running alongisde our community development projects.

Surfing
Scuba Diving
Marine Conservation
Ocean Adventure
Surf Coach Qualification

For further information on each project please visit our website at http://www.bethechangeworldwide.com

Locations

Volunteer & Intern: Cape Town, South Africa

Volunteer in Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer volunteers a unique and inspiring experience. South Africa is located on the southern tip of the African continent flanked by the Atlantic Ocean on the west and the warm Indian Ocean on the east. The country enjoys a temperate and pleasant climate, with warm sunny days most of the year. Be the Change Worldwide offers volunteers from all over the world a truly holistic growth experience. Our volunteers are based in the South African coastal city of Cape Town, also often referred to as the Mother City.

Cape Town is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The impressive presence of the world renowned Table Mountain stands proudly above the city of Cape Town. Beautiful white sandy beaches along a peaceful coastline frame the Cape Peninsula, which is famed for its unique floral kingdom, bountiful rivers, vleis and dams and magnificent countryside. The surrounding area extends far into the winelands, green in summer and red-gold in autumn. Cape Town is a city of culture, built on a history that reflects in the architecture, cuisine, music and dance. Together with a warm summer and temperate winter climate and a friendly community, Cape Town is an ideal Gap Year destination throughout the year.

Volunteer in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

India is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer volunteers a unique and inspiring experience. India is located in South Asia and is bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the west and the Bay of Bengal on the east. India is the seventh largest country by geographical area and the second most-populous country with over 1.18 billion people.

Indian weather is predominantly hot with variations from region to region. The cooler period of the year lasts from November to March whilst the much warmer weather occurs between March and June. Monsoon rains occur in most regions during the summer which can be anywhere between June and early October. Be the Change Worldwide offers volunteers from all over the world a truly holistic growth experience. Our volunteers are based in the North West state of Rajasthan in the cities of Udaipur and Jaipur.

Udaipur is known as the “City of Lakes”. It was built in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh. The city has become known as the “Venice of the East”. It is located in the Aravalli hills of south Rajasthan and is considered to be one of the most romantic destinations in India. Udaipur has many marble palaces, lakes and temples. It’s also a centre for performing arts, painting and crafts. Famous historical figures such as Maharana Pratap, Rani Padmini and Meera Bai, the poetess and devotee of Lord Krishna, originate from Udaipur. The enchanting marble palaces and scenic beauty make it a fantastic place to relax.

Timeline

Volunteer Project Durations

Volunteer projects in both South Africa and India run from 3 weeks up to 5 months. You can choose your duration with most volunteers choosing between 5 weeks and 3 months. Projects run all year round with the exception of December in South Africa. For further information on dates and availability please contact us or visit our website at http://bethechangeworldwide.com/dates/

Accommodations

Accommodation, Food and Transport in Cape Town, South Africa

You are hosted by the Team of Be the Change Worldwide in our comfortable fully furnished house along with all our volunteers. The volunteer house is a very safe and friendly environment within Fish Hoek, a coastal village lying in a valley at the mouth of the Silvermine River, on the False Bay side of the Cape Peninsula.

Our volunteers stay in dormitory style accommodation with communal bathrooms. The house facilities include satellite television, broadband internet access and a swimming pool The house is located a short distance from the golden beaches of the magnificent Indian Ocean and conveniently situated within walking distance to a wide range of amenities for all your additional needs.

During the week, Mondays to Fridays, volunteers have all their meals prepared for them by our local team. Meals are not included on Saturdays and Sundays, as experience has taught us that most volunteers tend to explore Cape Town during weekends. Volunteers either purchase and prepare their own meals on weekends or often choose to eat out at local restaurants. Our kitchen is superbly equipped and local supermarkets and restaurants are within walking distance from the volunteer house.

On arrival at Cape Town International Airport you will be welcomed by our Be the Change Worldwide Team and be transferred from the airport to the volunteer house. All daily transport to and from the projects is provided.

Accommodation, Food and Transport in Udaipur, India

Be the Change Volunteers stay in safe clean basic shared accommodation in our dedicated volunteer house.

As a Be the Change Worldwide Volunteer you will be met by our team at the airport and accompanied to our volunteer house

Our Volunteer House is located centrally (around 20 minutes in each direction) between our volunteer placements and the main City. The rooms are basic but clean a relaxing communal TV room with cable TV and a book and DVD library. Volunteers have access to International telephone facilities and internet. The environment is structured but relaxed and friendly, staff are on site 24 hours a day. Volunteers enjoy three home cooked Indian meals a day freshly prepared by our dedicated chef.

Before your work placement begins you will be given a comprehensive orientation covering a range of topics including cultural awareness, religion, your work placement, lesson preparation and delivery. Our projects have a high level of support and guidance which will help you to be as well prepared as possible for your volunteer experience.

Prerequisites

Volunteer Profile

Be the Change Worldwide seeks individuals that are passionate and energetic with an enthusiasm for an adventure of a lifetime. If you are a post-school or post-university gap year student, a university undergraduate or postgraduate, or a career breaker, our projects are ideally suited for you. Our excellent teaching and education projects are also tailored for qualifying and qualified teachers. Volunteers must be 18 years of age and above. We do

Be the Change Worldwide does not require any formal qualifications for our excellent volunteer programs.

Costs

Be the Change Worldwide Project Fees

Udaipur, India

4 weeks from £1,195

8 weeks from £1,795

12 weeks from £2,395

Cape Town, South Africa

3 weeks from £1,195

5 weeks from £1,595

12 weeks from £2,995

What Is Included In Your Chosen Project?

Prior to your departure:

Expert advice on selecting your most suitable project
Travel assistance from our specialist Partners
Valuable ideas and assistance for your fundraising campaign
An open line of communication to our friendly and informative team
Our informative Project Pack including all relevant contact details

During your project

On arrival at the Airport you will be welcomed by our Project Team
Transfer from the airport to the volunteer house
Accommodation in the volunteer house
Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) Monday to Friday
24/7 assistance from our Be the Change Worldwide Team
Project induction and training prior to the commencement of your project
Management of your project delivery
All daily transport to and from your project
A selection of exciting volunteer group excursions and social events
24/7 emergency support from our Be the Change Worldwide UK Team
A portion of your funding donated to your projects local community
A chance to play sports for clubs in South Africa (terms and conditions apply)
An opportunity to learn to surf and/or gain certificates in Scuba Diving (terms and conditions apply) - South Africa only
Experience a new and vibrant culture

What Is Not Included In Your Chosen Project?

Flights
Saturday and Sunday meals (Cape Town only)
Visas (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Vaccinations
Spending money
Additional excursions and travel

To Apply

Be the Change Worldwide Application Process

To view our application process please visit our website at http://bethechangeworldwide.com/apply/

We require a completed application form which can be found on our website as well as a deposit of £195. Once received we will be in contact to speak about your chosen project.

Connect

We Would Like To Hear From You!

If you require further information or have any questions regarding our projects please do not hesitate in contacting the Team of Be the Change Worldwide.
Our office hours are from 08:00 – 21:00 GMT Monday to Friday.

Email us:	info@bethechangeworldwide.com
Skype us:	“bethechangeworldwide”
Website:	http://bethechangeworldwide.com
Call us:	+44 (0) 208 144 2423 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +44 (0) 208 144 2423 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (UK)
	+1 805-354-5632 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +1 805-354-5632 end_of_the_skype_highlighting (USA)
Address:	Be the Change Worldwide UK Head Office PO Box 592Cambridge CB10ES United Kingdom
Website issues/bugs:	rob@hitdelete.com