Gender Equality Volunteer Program in Zambia

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.

Project highlights

Support girls at a pivotal stage of life

Gain real insights into community healthcare

Contribute to sustainable empowerment

Contribute to a structured curriculum designed to create sustainable change.

Make Livingstone your Home

Become part of a volunteer family and a welcoming Zambian community.

Have a Zambian Adventure

Go on game drives, take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, and do a bungee-jump.

What you’ll do

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.

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.

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.

View an Example Week

Monday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

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.

12:00 – 12:30

Lunch

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.

16:00 – 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.

18:00 – 18:30

Dinner

18:30 – Onwards

Free night

Easy night for all the volunteers.

Tuesday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

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.

12:00 – 12:30

Lunch

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.

16:00 – 18:00

Back at the Volunteer House

18:00 – 18:30

Dinner

18:30 – Onwards

Movie night

Today the volunteers have a movie night in the volunteer house.

Wednesday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

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

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.

12:00 – 12:30

Lunch

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.

18:00 – 18:30

Dinner

18:30 – Onwards

Games night

The team either play games in the volunteer house or they go to a pub quiz in town.

Thursday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

07:40 - 08:00

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.

12:00 – 12:30

Lunch

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

18:00 – 18:30

Dinner

18:30

Free Time

Volunteers can chill at the volunteer house and play games with each other or read a book.

Friday

07:00 – 07:40

Breakfast

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.

12:30 – 13:30

Cultural meal

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.

18:00 – 18:30

Dinner

18:30 – Onwards

Free Time

Volunteers can chill at the volunteer house and play games with each other or read a book.

Living on the banks of the Zambezi

Livingstone, Zambia

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.

Staying at Our Base

Accommodation

Your home during your stay 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 activities 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 scheduled activities, 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 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.

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.

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.

Flights and 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!

View rates and inclusions

Fees cover accommodation, meals, project costs, transfers, support, and in-country orientation.

inclusions

Backpacker style accommodation with swimming pool
Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Fri)
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
Transport for scheduled activities, equipment and resources
Support from experienced local and international African Impact staff
Full orientation for responsible participation

Exclusions

Rates

Duration	Project Fee
2 weeks	$2,050 ($1,025 per week)
3 weeks	$2,940 ($980 per week)
4 weeks	$3,830 ($958 per week)
5 weeks	$4,720 ($944 per week)
6 weeks	$5,610 ($935 per week)
8 weeks	$7,390 ($924 per week)
10 weeks	$9,170 ($917 per week)
12 weeks	$10,950 ($913 per week)

Duration	Project Fee
2 weeks	£1,560 (£780 per week)
3 weeks	£2,235 (£745 per week)
4 weeks	£2,910 (£728 per week)
5 weeks	£3,590 (£718 per week)
6 weeks	£4,265 (£711 per week)
8 weeks	£5,620 (£703 per week)
10 weeks	£6,970 (£697 per week)
12 weeks	£8,325 (£694 per week)

Duration	Project Fee
2 weeks	€1,825 (€913 per week)
3 weeks	€2,620 (€874 per week)
4 weeks	€3,410 (€853 per week)
5 weeks	€4,200 (€840 per week)
6 weeks	€4,995 (€833 per week)
8 weeks	€6,580 (€823 per week)
10 weeks	€8,165 (€817 per week)
12 weeks	€9,745 (€813 per week)

Duration	Project Fee
2 weeks	$2,975 ($1,488 per week)
3 weeks	$4,265 ($1,422 per week)
4 weeks	$5,555 ($1,389 per week)
5 weeks	$6,845 ($1,369 per week)
6 weeks	$8,135 ($1,356 per week)
8 weeks	$10,715 ($1,340 per week)
10 weeks	$13,300 ($1,330 per week)
12 weeks	$15,880 ($1,324 per week)

Requirements

The minimum age to join this project is 18 years old
The minimum stay for this project is 2 weeks

Available start dates

What our volunteers say

“In a bunch of other volunteer programs, you help out but rarely feel like you are making a consistent effort. Here it is clear that your contribution is valued and you are here to help! Be prepared to work and then on weekends and evenings experience all the amazing things Zambia has to offer!! The food, accommodations, schools, organization leaders and team leaders are all fantastic. Absolutely come here if you were on the fence 🙂 I’m not a teacher but I loved helping teach here!!! The kids and teachers are all wonderful.”

Lexi Sprague, 28, United States

“My time with African Impact has absolutely changed my life. The staff at African Impact are some of the most incredible people I have ever met. They are so caring, welcoming, and fun to be around. Their passion and dedication to each project is contagious. The Girl Impact project was so fascinating to learn about mental health and gender relations in Zambia and it was amazing to get to teach the same girls every morning and watch them grow in their knowledge and understanding.”

Lucy Broun, 19, America

“I had the most amazing experience at African Impact in the Livingstone Community. First, the people who work here are some of the most welcoming people I have ever met. They made me feel at home the second I stepped into the house. Also, they were very eager to teach us about Zambian culture and help us navigate the cultural differences. In terms of the projects, everything is extremely organized and clear. I worked on the Girl Impact project and it was a great experience. I appreciated that I got to be hands on and teach the girls directly rather than just observing. Furthermore, the accommodation was fantastic. The food was excellent and they gave you plenty of it.”

Katie Schwartzkopf, 21, USA

Is This Project For 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:

Our Favorite Weekend Activities in Zambia

Africa’s adventure capital offers no shortage of ways to spend your weekends as a
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intrigued traveller.

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.

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