Volunteer with indigenous communities on conservation projects in Borneo
Vacancy: Volunteer with indigenous communities on conservation projects in Borneo
Company: Global Vision International
Category: Gap year projects (Conservation, Community development, Construction & building)
Dates: 2007 start dates: June 4, August 6, October 1, February 8
Cost: From £1200 depending on duration.
Description:
Work alongside a local organisation helping to provide sustainable alternative sources of income for locals in Borneo while simultaneously protecting the rainforest and mega-biodiversity of the Lower Kinabatangan. Established in March 1997 the initiative was led by village youth from four nearby villages who volunteered their time to plan and establish community owned ecotourism activities. Among other things these pioneer volunteers documented traditional indigenous knowledge and aural history and began detailed studies of the seven different types of rainforest which surround the community.
10 years later the project has grown immensely, and there is immediate need for the development of nature interpretation trails, building work at the Eco-Camp, and some basic wildlife surveys. It is also hoped that volunteers might prove useful with IT skills and teaching English in the local community.
As a volunteer you will be provided with a one-day forest safety course which will equip you with the skills needed to live in the region, and more importantly will teach you how to make the whole jungle experience comfortable and enjoyable. This course is recognized by the Royal Geographical Society and most universities.
Participants will either be living with a local family in the village (homestay) or camping in the forest. In the village you will learn to live in a traditional way and spend a lot of time with your host family. In the forest camps you may have to cook for yourselves, with basic facilities. Come be a part of this inspiring eco-tourism initiative and see how the little things you do can make a big difference to someone else.