ISLANDERS have until 19 October to sign up to become a Jersey Overseas Aid volunteer – and potentially be part of a team travelling to Nepal, Zambia or Malawi next year.
Recently, the Island’s official, publicly funded aid and development agency launched its 2026 Volunteer Programme.
Next year, JOA is organising three projects with teams of 12 to 14 Islanders joining each one.
The first is to Gandaki Province in Nepal between 15 and 29 March and will be run in partnership with the Gurkha Welfare Trust UK.
JOA volunteers will help in the construction of a major school building project in a remote rural community. Working alongside the Trust, volunteers will gain insight into daily life in Nepal, the importance of education, and the resilience of communities driving their own development.
The second, between 20 and 27 June, is to Kabwe District in Zambia and will be run with Habitat for Humanity GB.
Volunteers will support construction efforts in Makululu, one of southern Africa’s largest informal settlements. By working alongside residents and partner families, the team will help strengthen housing and infrastructure while experiencing first-hand how locally driven solutions can create lasting change.
The third project is to the Malawian capital Lilongwe between 11 and 19 July and will also be run with Habitat for Humanity GB as part of its Global Village programme.
Volunteers will help build homes in an informal settlement where thousands of families face insecure housing. Working together with local artisans and families, Islanders will contribute to Habitat’s wider efforts to improve shelter, sanitation and community resilience.
International Development Minister Carolyn Labey, chair of JOA, said: “I am delighted that the recent launch of our 2026 Volunteer Programme was sold out, with 250 Islanders coming together to learn how they can play their part in tackling global challenges.
“The enthusiasm we’ve seen shows that our volunteering programme is more popular than ever, and that Islanders want to make a real difference, not through charity, but through solidarity and partnership.
“For over 50 years, Jersey volunteers have brought skills and compassion to communities worldwide, and I’m proud that this commitment remains so strong today.”
Islanders wanting to apply, can click here: Volunteering – Community Work Projects | Jersey Overseas Aid Commission
