Volunteering at Siyaphumelela
More than volunteering. Become part of a community.
Volunteering at the Siyaphumelela After School Care Centre is about much more than giving your time.
It is about building meaningful relationships, learning from one another, and becoming part of a community that believes every child deserves the opportunity to thrive.
Siyaphumelela welcomes volunteers from around the world who are passionate about education, community, and making a lasting difference.
Whether you stay for two weeks or several months, you will become part of everyday life at the centre—supporting local educators while experiencing the warmth, resilience, and joy of the children and community.
What You Can Expect
No two days at Siyaphumelela are exactly the same.
Children arrive at the centre after school from around 1:00 pm, while the mornings are often spent preparing meals, organising learning materials, planning activities, or helping with daily tasks around the centre.
An afternoon may include:
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Homework support and educational activities
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Sharing a warm meal together
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Arts, crafts and creative workshops
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Sports, games and outdoor activities
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Reading and English practice
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Simply spending time, listening, encouraging and building relationships
Your Role
As a volunteer, you are here to support—not replace—the incredible work already being done by the local team.
We believe the most meaningful impact comes from working with the community, sharing knowledge, and learning from one another.
You might:
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Assist children with homework
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Read books together
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Support English learning
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Organise games or creative activities
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Share your own talents and ideas
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Help with the daily routines of the centre
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Simply be another caring adult in a child's life
Above all, we ask our volunteers to come with an open mind, respect for the local community, and a willingness to learn.
Living in Port Alfred
To ensure a safe and comfortable stay, volunteers have the opportunity to live on the secure campus of NHL Stenden University in Port Alfred.
You'll stay alongside local and international students, creating a welcoming environment where you can experience everyday life in South Africa while connecting with people from around the world.
Accommodation Options
2. Shared room (en-suite) — €140/week (including dinner)
1. Private room — €175/week (including dinner)
The campus also offers:
✓ Daily dinner in the canteen
✓ Shared kitchen
✓ Community activities
✓ 5-minute walk to the beach
✓ Restaurants, cafés and small shops nearby
✓ 24-hour security
But Volunteers can also organise their own stay at an Airbnb or hotel.
Transport
Your daily transport between the accommodation and the Siyaphumelela Centre is organised for you through a trusted private driver.
Airport transfers, shopping trips and other journeys can also be arranged whenever needed.
Our goal is to make your stay as easy and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what really matters—the children.
Support Throughout Your Stay
You will never be on your own.
Throughout your volunteering experience, Veliswa and Isabel will be your main points of contact.
From the moment you start planning your journey until your last day at the centre, we are here to support you with:
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Organisation before your arrival
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Accommodation and transport
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Daily coordination
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Cultural questions
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Challenges or emergencies
We want you to feel safe, prepared and welcomed from the very beginning.
Join Our Journey
Every volunteer brings something unique.
Whether you enjoy teaching, sports, music, arts, languages, photography, or simply spending time with children, your presence can make a lasting difference.
Come with an open heart.
Leave with unforgettable memories.