UMU RAFIKIVOLUNTEERS

Volunteer

Come for the work. Leave with a family.

If you love being on the ground, working directly with children, and immersing yourself in a new culture, this is for you.

Our volunteers teach in classrooms, play local games with the children, run art and creative sessions, lead cooking classes, and take part in painting and small infrastructure projects that make schools safer and more welcoming. Stays range from just two days to an open-ended commitment — however much time you can give.

No previous experience is required — what matters most is your energy and willingness to help. Every volunteer applies at least one week in advance, and we arrange a video call beforehand to get to know each other. Placement fees vary depending on length of stay and program — contact us for details.

Plan ahead: Apply at least one week before your preferred dates. Food and accommodation are included in the placement fee.

A day in the life

Purpose, culture, and room to explore.

A typical day blends purpose with adventure — meaningful mornings with the children, and total freedom to explore Kenya in your own time.

Morning

Wake up and have breakfast with Umu's family

10:00 AM

Arrive at school, play games with the children

11:00 AM

Return and teach a lesson

12:30 PM

Lunch with the kids

Afternoon

Free time: explore Mombasa with Umu, relax at the beach, or join other excursions

Weekends

Completely free to travel — Diani, Watamu, safaris, and beyond

I spent a few weeks volunteering at Glorious Academy. What I enjoyed most was teaching the kids a bit of Italian, Spanish and Portuguese, playing local games with them, and experiencing their daily food and culture. The teachers and Umu supported me in everything, and I even learned some Swahili in return. Now I feel I gained human touch, love, and a new family. The kids were always happy to see me — the way they welcome new volunteers is unbelievable.
Gabriella, 31, Italy