Female Empowerment Project in Zambia
VOLUNTEER
GENDER EQUALITY
Support gender equality efforts in a welcoming community
Become part of a structured women’s empowerment program designed to build confidence, leadership, and life skills in young women in Livingstone. You’ll facilitate interactive sessions in local schools, creating space for open conversations around self-esteem, health, rights, financial literacy, and future goals. It’s inspiring work that’s hands-on, discussion-based, and rooted in mentorship. Outside of project hours, you’ll be able to take full advantage of being based in Livingstone, a vibrant Zambian town on the banks of the Zambezi River, and near one of the natural wonders of the earth, the Victoria Falls. With your fellow volunteers, you’ll take sunset cruises while watching elephants drink from the river, go white-water rafting, or simply take in the incredible force of the falls.
Project highlights
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Support girls at a pivotal stage of life
Work with young women navigating adolescence, identity, and ambition.
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Create safe spaces for real dialogue
Help facilitate honest discussions around topics often considered taboo.
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Be part of a long-term empowerment program
Contribute to a structured, year-long curriculum designed to create sustainable change.
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Make Livingstone your Home
Become part of a volunteer family and a welcoming Zambian community.
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Have a Zambian Adventure
Go on game drives, take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, and (if you’re brave) do a bungee-jump.
Available: Year Round
Duration: 2 Weeks+
Price From £1,560 This cost covers your accommodation, meals, project fees, transfers, 24/7 support and in-country orientation.
What You’ll Do
COMMUNITY
Facilitate Empowerment Workshops
You’ll spend your mornings in local schools delivering structured empowerment sessions with girls’ groups, following a year-long curriculum designed to build confidence, knowledge, and leadership skills. Sessions are interactive and discussion-led, covering themes such as self-esteem, menstrual health, financial literacy, goal setting, human rights, and positive decision-making. Rather than standing and lecturing, you’ll guide conversations, encourage participation, and create a safe environment where students feel comfortable asking questions. Over time, you’ll see individuals grow more confident in sharing their opinions and supporting one another. The consistency of working with the same group each week allows trust to develop naturally, which is at the heart of meaningful empowerment work. The program also includes a weekly boys’ session, recognising that sustainable gender equality means engaging the wider school community in conversations about respect, responsibility, and leadership.
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
COMMUNITY
Build Mentorship & Trust
A key part of this project is relationship-building. By returning to the same schools and groups each week, you become a familiar, reliable presence. Students begin to see you not just as a volunteer, but as a mentor, someone they can approach with questions or concerns. This ongoing connection gives you insight into the everyday realities young women face, while also allowing you to support them in setting personal goals and developing a stronger sense of self-belief. As a volunteer, you’re walking alongside them in a structured program designed to strengthen their voice and confidence.
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
COMMUNITY
Contribute to a Sustainable Program
This is not a one-off workshop model. The empowerment initiative follows a clear annual framework, with defined themes and measurable objectives. You’ll work alongside coordinators to prepare sessions, reflect on progress, and support basic data collection that helps track development across the year. Being part of this process gives you an understanding of how long-term community programs are managed and evaluated. It also ensures that your contribution fits into something bigger; it’s a program designed for consistency, accountability, and lasting impact.
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
Gender Equality | Quality Education | Good Health & Well-being
What You'll Take Home
Why This Project Suits You
This experience offers more than meaningful travel – it gives you practical, transferable skills grounded in real responsibility. By facilitating structured empowerment sessions and working within a long-term community program, you’ll develop confidence in leadership, communication, and teamwork in a cross-cultural setting. You’ll gain insight into how gender-focused initiatives are designed, delivered, and monitored, and understand what sustainable community engagement looks like in practice.
By the end of your stay, you’ll have:
Built confidence in public speaking and facilitation
Strengthened cross-cultural communication and adaptability
Gained experience contributing to a structured empowerment initiative
Developed leadership and mentoring skills in a real-world setting
Learned how community programs are monitored and evaluated
Example Weekly Schedule
Monday
Breakfast
07:00 – 07:40
Morning
07:40 – 11:00 | Preparation time
Every Monday morning, volunteers have preparation time to get lesson plans ready for the week ahead. Together with the coordinator, they ensure that all data from the previous week, such as attendance and testing records, is completed. Each session includes a fun icebreaker, and volunteers prepare for their specific roles in the upcoming lessons.
11:00 – 12.00 | Breaktime
Volunteers have free time to read a book, run errands such as going to the supermarket, or simply relax.
Lunch
12:00 – 12:30
Afternoon
12:30 – 13.00 | Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00 | Girl Impact Project
In each session, volunteers visit a different class, as each group participates in Girl Impact once a week. Lessons begin with attendance, followed by an icebreaker. The session then moves on to the main lesson and concludes with bread and juice for all the girls.
16:30 – 18:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
A Monday meeting is held with the entire team to get to know one another, review the weekly plan, and share any additional announcements.
Dinner
18:00 – 18:30
Evening
18:30 – Onwards | Free night
Easy night for all the new volunteers.
Tuesday
Breakfast
07:00 – 07:40
Morning
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation time
Volunteers prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning, as well as any last-minute preparations for the project. Once ready, they depart for the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Girl Impact Project
Each session we go to a different class as we have each group once a week for GI. We start the lesson by taking attendance, followed by an icebreaker. Then we go over to the main lesson and we finish with bread and juice for all the girls.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
Volunteers receive an activities talk from Victoria Falls Backpackers, after which they can book their weekend activities.
Lunch
12:00 – 12:30
Afternoon
12:30 – 13:00 | Preparation time
The volunteers prepare for the afternoon activities together with the staff, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared and understands their role for the afternoon. At times, they also help make peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00 | Girl Impact Project
In each session, volunteers visit a different class, as each group participates in Girl Impact once a week. Lessons begin with attendance, followed by an icebreaker. The session then moves on to the main lesson and concludes with bread and juice for all the girls.
16:30 – 18:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
Free time for everyone until dinner.
Dinner
18:00 – 18:30
Evening
18:30 – Onwards | Movie night
Today the volunteers have a movie night in the volunteer house.
Wednesday
Breakfast
07:00 – 07:40
Morning
07:40 – 8:00 | Preparation time
Volunteers prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning, as well as any last-minute preparations for the project. Once ready, they depart for the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Girl Impact Project
In each session, volunteers visit a different class, as each group participates in Girl Impact once a week. Lessons begin with attendance, followed by an icebreaker. The session then moves on to the main lesson and concludes with bread and juice for all the girls.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
A language lesson is held, during which a staff member teaches the volunteers some basic Nyanja phrases.
Lunch
12:00 – 12:30
Afternoon
12:30 – 13:00 | Preparation time
We prepare for our afternoon activities together with staff. We make sure everyone is fully prepared and knows their part for the afternoon. Sometimes we also bring peanut butter sandwiches and juice for the students so the volunteers can help make that.
13:00 – 16:00 | Girl Impact Project
In each session, volunteers visit a different class, as each group participates in Girl Impact once a week. Lessons begin with attendance, followed by an icebreaker. The session then moves on to the main lesson and concludes with bread and juice for all the girls.
16:00 – 16:30 | Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers are taken to the Maramba community to visit the local market. At the market, a wide variety of goods are sold, with the fabric stalls being a particular favorite. Volunteers can buy chitenge fabric, which local tailors can turn into skirts, bags, or other custom items.
Dinner
18:00 – 18:30
Evening
18:30 – Onwards | Games night
The volunteers either play games in the volunteer house or they go to a pub quiz in town.
Thursday
Breakfast
07:00 – 07:40
Morning
07:40 | Preparation time
Each session we go to a different class as we have each group once a week for GI. We start the lesson by taking attendance, followed by an icebreaker. Then we go over to the main lesson and we finish with bread and juice for all the girls.
08:00 – 11:00 | Girl Impact Project
Volunteers help prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning and complete any final preparations for the project before departing for the project site.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers have free time to read a book, go to the supermarket etc.
Lunch
12:30 – 13:00
Afternoon
13:00 – 16:00 | Village Tour
Every volunteer has the opportunity to take part in the Village Tour, which is organized by the women of the local women’s group. This tour serves as an income-generating activity for the group while allowing volunteers to visit and experience two different communities around Livingstone. Volunteers also get to taste local snacks. If a volunteer has already participated in the Village Tour the previous week, they instead take part in a community project.
16:30 – 18:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
Dinner
18:00 – 18:30
Evening
18:30 – Onwards | Free Night
Volunteers can chill at the volunteers house and play games with each other or read a book.
Friday
Breakfast
07:00 – 07:40
Morning
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation time
Volunteers help prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning and complete any final preparations for the project before departing for the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Girl Impact Project
In each session, volunteers visit a different class, as each group participates in Girl Impact once a week. Lessons begin with attendance, followed by an icebreaker. The session then moves on to the main lesson and concludes with bread and juice for all the girls.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the Volunteer House
The volunteers have free time to read a book, go to the supermarket etc.
12:00 – 12:30 | Friday check-in
Before lunch, a “Friday Check-In” is held. During this session, volunteers are asked for feedback on the week, informed of any maintenance in the house, updated on the weekend plans, and briefed on any new arrivals.
Lunch
12:30 – 13:30 | Cultural meal
Afternoon
13:30 – 16:00 | Cultural afternoon
Volunteers gather in the boma at the backpackers, where one or two staff members give a talk about Zambia. The session includes time for questions and answers, followed by a “mock wedding,” in which two volunteers are playfully married to demonstrate a traditional Zambian wedding. Afterward, everyone participates in drumming and dancing together. If a volunteer has already attended the cultural afternoon the previous week, they instead take part in a community project.
Dinner
18:30 – 18:30
Evening
19:30 | Free night
The Volunteers can chill at the volunteer house and play games with each other or read a book etc.
Project Location
Livingstone, Zambia
Livingstone: Life on the Zambezi
Set on the banks of the Zambezi River, and a short drive from the mighty Victoria Falls, Livingstone is a town that perfectly balances adventure, culture, and everyday life in Zambia. It has a warm, welcoming energy, with friendly locals, colorful markets, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to settle in. Outside of your volunteer hours, there’s plenty to see and do. You can spot hippos and crocodiles while taking a boat trip on the Zambezi, walk the paths around impressive Victoria Falls, or go for a game drive in the local game reserve. For those seeking adventure, options include white-water rafting and bungee jumping.
Weekend activity options include:
- Visit the iconic Victoria Falls and take in its incredible power
- Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, surrounded by hippos and crocodiles
- Explore Livingstone’s local markets, shops, and cafés
- Go on a day safari in nearby national parks to spot wildlife
- Try adventure activities like bungee jumping, zip-lining, or white-water rafting
Accommodation
Your home during the project is a simple, comfortable volunteer house in Livingstone, designed to give you everything you need while staying immersed in local life. You’ll share rooms with other volunteers, each equipped with basic furnishings, fans, and secure storage. Bathrooms and showers are shared, and communal areas provide space to relax and connect.
There is also a pool for you to unwind during hot days. The house is within easy reach of the clinics, schools, and local amenities, so it’s easy to balance project work with downtime and explore the town at your own pace. Staying here also gives you the chance to experience daily life in Livingstone alongside other volunteers and local staff.
Meals are prepared on-site by our local team and give a taste of Zambian cuisine alongside familiar, international options. Expect wholesome breakfasts to start your day, filling lunches during project hours, and warm, home-cooked dinners in the evenings. Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, and dietary needs can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Weekends offer the chance to try local cafés, markets, or cook together with fellow volunteers, making meals not just nourishing but also a social and cultural experience.
You’ll be supported by an experienced local team who oversee daily project activities, training, and volunteer wellbeing. They provide orientation on arrival, guide you through your volunteer work, and are available for advice and support throughout your stay. The team also helps you understand local culture and customs, ensuring your work is respectful, effective, and a positive experience for both you and the community.
Staying in Livingstone, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi at the volunteer house, though note speeds can vary. Local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and widely available, allowing you to stay connected while out in the community. Power outages can occasionally occur, which is part of life here, so having a charged power bank and some flexibility is useful.
Volunteer safety is a top priority. You’ll receive a full induction covering health precautions, local customs, and emergency procedures. During clinic visits and home-based care, staff ensure activities are conducted safely and responsibly. The volunteer house is in a secure area, and staff are available 24/7 in case of emergencies. Simple precautions like staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, and following local guidance will help ensure your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
Accommodation
Your home during the project is a simple, comfortable volunteer house in Livingstone, designed to give you everything you need while staying immersed in local life. You’ll share rooms with other volunteers, each equipped with basic furnishings, fans, and secure storage. Bathrooms and showers are shared, and communal areas provide space to relax and connect.
There is also a pool for you to unwind during hot days. The house is within easy reach of the clinics, schools, and local amenities, so it’s easy to balance project work with downtime and explore the town at your own pace. Staying here also gives you the chance to experience daily life in Livingstone alongside other volunteers and local staff.
The Meals
Meals are prepared on-site by our local team and give a taste of Zambian cuisine alongside familiar, international options. Expect wholesome breakfasts to start your day, filling lunches during project hours, and warm, home-cooked dinners in the evenings. Ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, and dietary needs can usually be accommodated with prior notice. Weekends offer the chance to try local cafés, markets, or cook together with fellow volunteers, making meals not just nourishing but also a social and cultural experience.
Support Team
You’ll be supported by an experienced local team who oversee daily project activities, training, and volunteer wellbeing. They provide orientation on arrival, guide you through your volunteer work, and are available for advice and support throughout your stay. The team also helps you understand local culture and customs, ensuring your work is respectful, effective, and a positive experience for both you and the community.
Safety
Volunteer safety is a top priority. You’ll receive a full induction covering health precautions, local customs, and emergency procedures. During clinic visits and home-based care, staff ensure activities are conducted safely and responsibly. The volunteer house is in a secure area, and staff are available 24/7 in case of emergencies. Simple precautions like staying hydrated, protecting yourself from the sun, and following local guidance will help ensure your experience is both safe and enjoyable.
Connectivity
Staying in Livingstone, you’ll have access to Wi-Fi at the volunteer house, though note speeds can vary. Local SIM cards with data are inexpensive and widely available, allowing you to stay connected while out in the community. Power outages can occasionally occur, which is part of life here, so having a charged power bank and some flexibility is useful.
Pricing
Rates
| Duration | Program Fee |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $1,950 ($975 per week) |
| 3 weeks | $2,800 ($934 per week) |
| 4 weeks | $3,650 ($913 per week) |
| 5 weeks | $4,500 ($900 per week) |
| 6 weeks | $5,350 ($892 per week) |
| 8 weeks | $7,050 ($882 per week) |
| 10 weeks | $8,750 ($875 per week) |
| 12 weeks | $10,450 ($871 per week) |
| 2 weeks | £1,560 (£780 per week) |
| 3 weeks | £2,240 (£747 per week) |
| 4 weeks | £2,920 (£730 per week) |
| 5 weeks | £3,600 (£720 per week) |
| 6 weeks | £4,280 (£714 per week) |
| 8 weeks | £5,640 (£705 per week) |
| 10 weeks | £7,000 (£700 per week) |
| 12 weeks | £8,360 (£697 per week) |
| 2 weeks | €1,764 (€882 per week) |
| 3 weeks | €2,576 (€859 per week) |
| 4 weeks | €3,358 (€840 per week) |
| 5 weeks | €4,140 (€828 per week) |
| 6 weeks | €4,922 (€821 per week) |
| 8 weeks | €6,486 (€811 per week) |
| 10 weeks | €8,050 (€805 per week) |
| 12 weeks | €9,614 (€802 per week) |
| 2 weeks | $2,886 ($1,443 per week) |
| 3 weeks | $4,144 ($1,382 per week) |
| 4 weeks | $5,402 ($1,351 per week) |
| 5 weeks | $6,660 ($1,332 per week) |
| 6 weeks | $7,918 ($1,320 per week) |
| 8 weeks | $10,434 ($1,305 per week) |
| 10 weeks | $12,950 ($1,295 per week) |
| 12 weeks | $15,466 ($1,289 per week) |
Inclusions
- Backpacker style accommodation with swimming pool
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Fri)
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- All project transport, equipment and resources
- Support from experienced local and international African Impact staff
- Full orientation for responsible project contribution
Exclusions
- Flights
- Visas
- Insurance
- Weekend tours
- Personal expenses
Requirements
- The minimum age to join this project is 18 years old
- The minimum stay for this project is 2 weeks
Flights & Arrivals
Arrive at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula (Livingstone) International Airport (LVI) on your Monday start date, landing between 9am and 6pm in order to make the complimentary transfer service. Look for the African Impact sign – a friendly face will be there to welcome you!
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Project faqs
What kind of impact will I make on the girl's that I work with?
Through interactive workshops, discussions, and activities, you’ll help young women develop essential life skills like leadership, communication, and critical thinking. You’ll also provide them with a safe space to express themselves, build confidence, and explore their dreams and aspirations. Your support can empower girls in Zambia to overcome challenges, advocate for themselves, and become positive changemakers in their communities.
What experience is required to this female empowerment volunteer project?
While prior experience working with young people or gender equality issues is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. We welcome individuals with a genuine passion for social justice, a willingness to learn, and an open mind. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support throughout our female empowerment placement to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively contribute to the program.
Will I also work with local boys and men to promote gender equality?
The Girl Impact recognizes the importance of collaboration in achieving gender equality. You’ll have opportunities to participate in workshops and discussions alongside local boys and men, fostering understanding and promoting shared responsibility in creating a more equitable society. This collaborative approach aims to break down harmful stereotypes and build a stronger support network for young women in Zambia within their communities.
Our favourite weekend activities in Zambia
Africa’s adventure capital offers no shortage of ways to spend your weekends as a volunteer. There’s something for everyone – from the adrenaline junkie to culturally intrigued traveller.
