SAVWA Sports Development Programme

Get ready to empower young people through sports development and hands-on initiatives! This project combines the thrill of sports with a meaningful mission to address gender issues using innovative sports-based methodologies. Volunteer Tasks As a volunteer, you’ll play an active role in the Sports Development Programme, engaging in a variety of activities such as: Learning and facilitating fun, simple sports and games. Teaching children both sports and artistic skills that you bring to the table. Building connections with the local community through sports-based interactions. This project offers an exciting and dynamic environment where you’ll have the chance to: Work with diverse communities and experience South Africa’s vibrant culture. Inspire and mentor children, instilling valuable leadership skills through sports. Create a positive impact by using the universal language of sports to break down barriers and promote inclusivity. This isn’t just volunteering but it’s an opportunity to build relationships, foster growth, and leave a lasting impression on the lives of young people through the power of sports and teamwork.

Volunteers will share accommodation with fellow participants, fostering a sense of community and connection. The housing is conveniently located near public transportation, shops, and various entertainment facilities, ensuring easy access to essential amenities and leisure activities. The space is fully equipped with modern comforts, including cozy bunk beds with fresh linens, essential toiletries, cutlery, and furniture to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. What to Bring Sleeping Essentials: A sleeping bag for added comfort. Personal Care: Sun cream and mosquito spray/lotion. Footwear: Comfortable sandals and sturdy shoes for different activities. Clothing: Light, practical clothing for working hours and warm clothes for chilly nights, along with a raincoat for unexpected weather. Tools and Extras: A torch or flashlight, and if possible, arts and cultural items like drums or other musical instruments to engage children. You may also bring sports equipment such as soccer balls or board games to enrich the activities. Language The community is wonderfully multicultural, with English as the primary language spoken. You’ll also encounter local languages such as Sotho, Zulu, and Tswana, adding to the cultural richness of the experience. Volunteers in South Africa can look forward to a rich and diverse culinary experience influenced by the country's multicultural heritage. South African cuisine reflects a blend of traditional African dishes and flavors brought by Indian, Dutch, Malay, and British influences, making every meal an adventure for your taste buds. Staple Foods Pap: A maize-based porridge, similar to polenta, often served as a side dish with stews or sauces. • Braaivleis: The South African barbecue (or "braai") is a cherished tradition, featuring grilled meats like boerewors (a flavorful sausage), chicken, or lamb. • Stews and Curries: Slow-cooked stews, often with a mix of vegetables and meat, are hearty and satisfying. Popular dishes include bobotie (a sweet and savory spiced minced meat dish) and bunny chow (a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry). Snacks and Street Food • Vetkoek: A deep-fried dough filled with savory mince or enjoyed plain with jam. • Samosas and Biltong: Indian-inspired crispy pastries and dried, spiced meat are popular grab-and-go snacks. • Vegetarian Options • South Africa offers plenty of vegetarian-friendly options, from samp and beans (a traditional dish made with maize and legumes) to flavorful vegetable curries. • Koeksisters: Fried dough twists soaked in syrup for a decadent dessert. Local Drinks • Rooibos Tea: A caffeine-free tea unique to South Africa, with a naturally sweet and nutty flavor. • Umqombothi: A traditional African beer made from maize, malt, and sorghum, often enjoyed during celebrations. Whether you’re savoring a home-cooked meal with the community or trying something new at a local market, South African food is sure to delight and introduce you to the warmth and hospitality of the people.

The Weekend is meant to be for free tours that the group can organize by themselves. All our work camps are reserved for cultural nights when each volunteer can present her/his country and culture and prepare a dish from your country Qualification of participants: Open minded, ready to interact with other people of different cultural background - Positive attitude - Willing to share his/her experiences - Flexible to live/stay in simple living conditions - Flexible to eat local food - Ready to do academic work on the project and No experience needed at all. Willingness to guide students especially in cultural and arts activities mostly afternoon work from 2 pm till 6 pm mostly. Some weekends may have excursions with students to different areas of Pretoria