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Canada
The experience volunteering at SYI was very rewarding and eye opening. You get a glimpse into life inside the slums, while meeting a ton of very kind and resilient people. The place you stay is just outside of the slums (10 min walk) and can experience power outages and water outages (they have reserve water for bucket showers when this happens). Bonface and his family are very warm and welcoming hosts. Being in the slums it took us a bit to become used to the smells and burning garbage. The kids and volunteers at SYI are all wonderful and the evening feeding program is truly special.
15 days ago
Canada
We had a great experience volunteering at SYI! Bonface and Grace graciously welcomed us into their home and made us feel included. It was incredible to see the work that is being done at SYI to help the community, how happy the kids are to have you, and learn about the plans for the future of the organization. We loved participating in the games with the kids in the afternoon, seeing all the different programs offered and helping serve meals for the meal program. Although our stay got cut short by illness, it still had a lasting impact on us and we highly recommend this experience to others.
16 days ago
United Kingdom
I spend 3 weeks in Soweto working with both SYI and UCL. I can truly say these organisation are having an enormous impact on the community of Soweto. Helping hundreds of kids into education and providing a safe space for those who aren't yet in school. The team of staff and volunteers are truly amazing, working hard everyday for these kids. Bonface was an excellent host, always making me feel welcome and cooking delicious food. The environment in the slum can be overwhelming at first but if you take your time to adjust and have an open mind you will be fine! I will miss you Soweto 🥺❤️
over 1 year ago
We are truly grateful for Abi’s time, commitment, and remarkable dedication during her volunteer work with our organization. She brought enthusiasm, care, and professionalism to every task, making a strong impact through the mental health program, girls’ empowerment initiative, and home and school visits. Her empathy, consistency, and ability to genuinely connect with the community left a lasting impression on both our team and those she served. Thank you, Abi!
United Kingdom
My time with this project was overall very special and I think the organization has a real and visible impact on the lives of the people of the community specially the children. The local volunteers/the team where also amazing and warmly since the beginning and a big thank you to the boys that always walked us home and made sure we where sate. One thing that I think could improve is the communication whiten the team as sometimes I received different instructions from different people but overall you can help and learn a lot in this project and I miss the children a lot!
about 1 year ago
Thank you so much for your kind words and for the valuable time you spent with our project. We deeply appreciate your dedication and the positive impact you made on the children and community. We also note your feedback on communication; sometimes instructions may vary depending on the needs that arise. We kindly encourage volunteers to remain flexible and adaptable. We are grateful for your contribution and look forward to welcoming you again in the future.
Italy
From the very first moment, Bonface and his amazing family welcomed us with a sweetness and a unique willingness.
Making us feel, in every sense, like part of their family.
A huge thanks also goes to Bonface's initiative, which, together with other locals, has given life to a fantastic association.
It is a safe space where children of any age can learn, play, and spend their days in absolute serenity.
A truly special place!❤️❤️❤️
about 2 months ago
Italy
My experience and that of my group was really very positive! We were warmly welcomed by the community and we felt at home both in the organization and with our host. What we appreciated most was living in the community and making a real contribution to the organization and to the people of Soweto!
Leaving Soweto was difficult for all the wonderful people we met.
2 months ago
Argentina
Very grateful to have been able to collaborate on the SOWETO YOUTH INITIATIVE project. George is an incredible person who not only works for the children but for the whole community. He and all his collaborators and volunteers form an admirable team! They welcome you with open arms and are always very attentive to make you feel welcome. They not only take care of health and education but also offer courses to mothers so they can have a path to employment. Bonface opens the doors to his home, they prepare delicious meals and accompany you in everything you need to give you a sense of security.
3 months ago
