My time in Nepal, working on VIN’s Women’s Empowerment programme in the Jitpurphedi community, has been rich in experience and emotion. Especially valuable was the cultural immersion, living with a host family and working closely with local volunteers and community women to help them develop life skills and to raise awareness of important social issues such as domestic violence. The friends I’ve gained and memories I’ve made will stay with me for life.

VIN is a good-hearted organization, working in difficult circumstances to help marginalized communities. A lack of structure and direction is hampering their progress, and the wealth of volunteer talent and enthusiasm they attract, of people all around the world wanting to help others, is underused. A VIN volunteer needs to have a strong capacity for initiative and self-confidence, and not rely on much support from the organization, to make the most of their time here. If you have these qualities, you will be able to forge for yourself a rewarding and utterly unforgettable experience – and you won’t want to leave!