Work with children and youth through community and support programs in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Volunteer in South Africa supporting children and youth through schools, daycare centres, and community programs in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

This structured program focuses on early childhood care, education, and development, giving volunteers the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, long-term community support while experiencing daily life in South Africa.

As a volunteer, you assist local staff in creating a safe, nurturing environment for children while gaining hands-on experience in childcare and community work. The program is ideal for gap year students and anyone looking to make a direct and positive impact.

Uviwe, meaning “you are heard” in isiXhosa, is a registered child protection organisation working across multiple community initiatives, including daycare centres, afterschool programmes, baby safe havens, and family support services.

The focus is clear: vulnerable children and at-risk youth must have access to nutrition, protection, learning support, and life skills development. No prior experience is required, and volunteers are supported by experienced local staff throughout their placement.

Unforgettable Highlights

• Volunteer with Children in South Africa
• Support schools, daycare centres, and afterschool programmes
• Assist with parenting and family support initiatives
• Gain exposure to community-based social work
• Live in a beachfront exclusive Volunteer House
• Explore the Eastern Cape coastline on weekends
• Share the experience with other international volunteers

Why join this Volunteer with Children in South Africa project?

Many children in township communities face poverty, family instability, and limited educational resources. Consequently, they often lack consistent support outside school hours.

Uviwe works holistically with families and communities. In other words, change happens when support is stable and long-term.

Programmes focus on:

• Early Childhood Development (ages 0–3)
• Afterschool homework support (ages 10–13)
• Parenting training programmes
• Holiday programmes during school breaks
• Child protection and family support initiatives

In addition, volunteers may assist at partner schools, daycare centres, or baby and child shelters depending on community needs.

This placement suits gap year volunteers as well as students in social work, education, psychology, or community development.

How does a volunteer get involved?

Volunteers in the Uviwe Children Volunteer program may assist with:

• Supporting activities at Early Childhood Development Centres
• Helping with homework support and tutoring
• Organising games, sports, and creative sessions
• Assisting with parenting workshops
• Supporting structured holiday programmes

Flexibility is essential. Activities may change depending on community priorities. However, working hours generally follow weekday school schedules, and weekends remain free.

You may also be interested in:
• Ithemba Special Day Care Center
• Missionvale Community Program

Fun Outings and Activities

Outside project hours, you can hang out at the beach, go for a surf, or explore the city with other volunteers. Weekend trips to Addo Elephant National Park or along the Garden Route are easy to arrange.

Why Volunteer in Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) Instead of Cape Town?

Port Elizabeth offers a more authentic and community-focused volunteer experience than larger tourist cities like Cape Town. The city is smaller, less commercial, and allows closer connection with local communities. Volunteers live near the beach, enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle, and experience real South African culture beyond major tourism hubs. At the same time, you still have access to wildlife reserves like Addo Elephant National Park and the Garden Route and visit Cape Town before or after your stay with us.

Volunteer at a Childcare Project in South Africa

Volunteering at Uviwe gives you the opportunity to support children in a structured and meaningful way. The program focuses on early childhood development, education, and creating a safe environment for young people to grow.

This project is ideal for volunteers who want to work closely with children while gaining insight into local communities in South Africa. No previous experience is required, but a positive attitude and willingness to engage are essential. Living in Gqeberha, you will be based near the ocean while contributing to a project that has a long-term impact on the lives of children and families. If you want to know more about the day to day, check out this page.

Accommodation and meals

Volunteers and interns stay in our comfortable beachfront Volunteer House in Port Elizabeth. The house is shared with international participants working on different projects.

It includes reliable WiFi, a swimming pool, a large garden, and walking access to the beach. Moreover, shared spaces encourage connection while still allowing quiet time.

All meals are provided. In addition, coordinators provide your daily transport and ongoing support throughout your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions