Through our international presence we directly support people in Mutare, Chikanga, and stand up to our vision of sustainable education, strengthening the confidence of the society. Through our engagement with local communities we act collaboratively and holistically, esp. in the scope of our cooperation with local schools and social organisations. Acceptance and tolerance of the Zimbabwean culture, and respectful togetherness are particularly important to us. What counts is your participation, passion and openness towards a multifaceted culture.
You should be at least 18 years old, open, tolerant, creative, flexible, patient and reliable. Good english language skills, sound health and psychological robustness are presuppositions. You have to find joy in diving into a completely different culture and way of living which is not always easy. Please send us a tabular CV, and a cover letter stating why you wish to join us, your expectations etc.
We require a contribution towards food and accommodation which is based on current prices for foods etc. Unfortunately we cannot cover travel expenses incl. costs for flights, visa, or a possible work permit, but we are happy to give advice regarding financing possibilities and travel planning.
You will have your own room in the garden of the kindergarten. The room has several beds, hence there is also the possibility of working with more than one volunteer at a time. Shared toilets, shower, kitchen and wifi are provided although wifi can be limited. Traditional breakfast and lunch are included as we cook every day in the kindergarten. A large vegetable garden is also part of the property. Dinner, weekend meals, and meals during school holidays are not included. There are many shops and street vendors close to the kindergarten though.
My time in Zimbabwe in 2017 was incredibly multifaceted. During my 6-month stay I was responsible for scouting a suitable building, preparation for the foundation of the local Trust, development of the project management plan, and registration of the kindergarten. I have learned a lot about cultural challenges and differences, as well as about my privileged, self-determined life. The time in Zimbabwe and the collaboration with local people inspired me.Anna Schubert, Vice Chariman Bongai Shamwari e.V.
I wrote my final thesis in collaboration with Bongai Shamwari and am part of the project ever since. During my time in Zimbabwe I gained a lot of experience and was lucky enough to meet many incredible people. Goal of my work was the development of a solar-based electricity system to take the first step towards self-sufficient power supply, and to model sustainable use of electricity.Nina Kapischke
I have spent a sabbatical semester as a volunteer at the kindergarten in Mutare from 09/18 to 01/19. Besides play and fun with the kids I professionalised the system surrounding scholarships. Life at the kindergarten left a deep imprint on me. The conditions under which many families live are very difficult. Yet people have met me with such an incredible warmheartedness again and again, and made this time unforgettable for me.Judith Hauck
In the scope of my bachelor thesis I had the opportunity to conduct a crowd-funding campaign for Bongai Shamwari. I visited the kindergarten Bongai Shamwari in 08/18 and had incredible experiences there. As a child caretaker I particularly formed strong bonds with the children and was very moved by some of the childrens’ stories. I am glad to have become a part of this wonderful family. I would not want to miss the impressions and experience I gained.Lena Schlindwein
I have studied information management connected with the health system at the universities of Ulm and Neu-Ulm. In the beginning of 2018 I was in Zimbabwe to collect data for my bachelor thesis. In the scope of this project I analysed the nutritional situation of children in their home environment, and developed an optimised dietary concept to counteract nutrient deprivation. Not only was this time the foundation for my final thesis, but it has also led to personal growth.Laura Feil
Pascal Emmert
During my time at Bongai Shamwari I experienced many unforgettable moments and gained valuable intercultural insight. Due to the heartfelt welcome and hospitality by the local community I felt very comfortable. My work was always supported yet I had the necessary freedom to implement my own ideas.
After completing my A-Levels I spent 5 months (2024) in Mutare to support the kindergarten. Besides my work at the kindergarten I became deeply familiar with the life, people and culture in Zimbabwe. I am tremendously thankful for the experiences I was able to gain and for everything I have learned. The local people met me with so much kindness, and gave me so much security that I would have loved to stay longer.Merle Arnold
