Gender Equality
One of Southern Africa’s most impactful gender equality initiatives.
Gender Equality
Work with young ladies in Livingstone, Zambia
This project supports young girls and teens as they build confidence, explore possibilities and develop life skills. Through group workshops, activities and mentoring sessions, you’ll help create safe spaces where girls feel valued, heard and inspired to reach their potential.
At the same time, the programme brings boys into positive discussions that encourage respect, fairness and healthy relationships in the wider community.
Overview of the Gender Equality Project
The goal is to help young people, especially girls to make them feel confident and knowledgeable about themselves and their futures. Sessions explore topics like personal wellbeing, education, teamwork, safety and positive relationships.
You’ll help guide group activities, support discussions, and assist with confidence-building exercises that encourage young people to think broadly about their goals and dreams.
This is a chance to make everyday moments meaningful, whether in a classroom, community centre, or informal group setting.
Project Highlights
Empower Young Girls- Support teenage girls by encouraging confidence, education, and life skills that help create brighter futures.
Challenge Gender Stereotypes- Take part in open discussions and activities that promote gender equality, encourage positive change, and inspire new perspectives.
Inspire Young Boys- Help raise awareness around respect, equality, and the importance of creating a more inclusive future for everyone.
Connect with a Welcoming Community- Experience the warmth of Livingstone while building genuine connections with local community members, project staff, and fellow travellers.
Explore the Wonders of Livingstone- Discover the incredible beauty of Victoria Falls — known as the “Smoke That Thunders” — and enjoy the many adventure activities and cultural experiences this unforgettable destination has to offer.
Example of your Weekly Schedule
Monday
07:40 – 11:00 | Lesson Preparation & Admin
Monday mornings are dedicated to preparing lesson plans and organising materials for the week ahead. Participants work alongside the project coordinator to ensure all data from the previous week, such as attendance and testing records, is completed. Each session is planned to include a fun icebreaker, and volunteers review their specific roles for upcoming lessons.
11:00 – 12:00 | Breaktime
Take a short break to relax, catch up on reading, run errands, or simply unwind before lunch.
12:00 – 12:30 | Lunch
12:30 – 13:00 | Afternoon Preparation
Participants get ready for the afternoon sessions with staff support. This may include finalising lesson materials, preparing refreshments such as juice or snacks for the students, and ensuring everyone understands their role.
13:00 – 16:00 | Gender Equality Project
Each session focuses on one group of girls, as each class participates in Gender Equality once per week. Sessions start with attendance, include icebreakers, and move on to the main lesson, which may cover confidence, health, or leadership skills. The session concludes with refreshments for the students.
16:30 – 18:00 | Volunteer House & Team Meeting
Back at the house, the team gathers for introductions, reviews the week’s schedule, and shares announcements or important updates.
18:00 – 18:30 | Dinner
18:30 onwards | Free Time
A relaxed evening to unwind, get to know each other, or enjoy some quiet time before the week begins.
Tuesday
07:00 – 07:40 | Breakfast
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation Time
Participants prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning sessions and finalise any last-minute lesson materials. Once ready, the group departs for the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Gender Equality Project
Each morning session is with a different class, as every group participates once per week. Lessons begin with attendance and an icebreaker before moving into the main activities, which may include discussions, confidence-building exercises, or health education. Sessions end with refreshments for the students.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the House
Participants return to the house for a short activities briefing, including information on upcoming weekend excursions and optional trips in and around Victoria Falls.
12:00 – 12:30 | Lunch
12:30 – 13:00 | Afternoon Preparation
The team prepares for the afternoon session, reviewing lesson plans and ensuring all materials are ready. Participants may also prepare snacks and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00 | Gender Equality Project
Another class session takes place in the afternoon. Like the morning, lessons include attendance, an icebreaker, the main educational session, and conclude with snacks for the students.
16:30 – 18:00 | Back at the House
Participants have free time to relax, shower, or socialise before dinner.
18:00 – 18:30 | Dinner
18:30 onwards | Movie Night
Participants enjoy a relaxed evening with a group movie night at the house, a great chance to unwind and bond with fellow participants.
Wednesday
07:00 – 07:40 | Breakfast
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation Time
Participants prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning sessions and finalise any last-minute lesson materials. Once ready, the group departs for the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Gender Equality Project
Each morning session is with a different class, as every group participates once per week. Lessons begin with attendance and an icebreaker before moving into the main activities, which may include discussions, confidence-building exercises, or health education. Sessions finish with snacks and juice for the students.
11:00 – 12:00 | Language Lesson
Back at the house, volunteers take part in a short Nyanja language session, learning useful phrases to help communicate with students and the local community.
12:00 – 12:30 | Lunch
12:30 – 13:00 | Afternoon Preparation
Participants get ready for the afternoon session with staff support. This may include reviewing lesson plans, preparing materials, and making snacks and juice for the students.
13:00 – 16:00 | Gender Equality Project
Afternoon sessions follow the same structure as the morning: attendance, icebreaker, main lesson, and refreshments for the students. Each class receives the programme once per week.
16:00 – 16:30 | Market Visit – Maramba Community
Participants visit the local Maramba market, known for its vibrant stalls and variety of goods. Chitenge fabrics are a popular choice, which can be custom-made into skirts, bags, or other items by local tailors.
18:00 – 18:30 | Dinner
18:30 onwards | Games Night
Participants enjoy a fun evening either playing games at the volunteer house or heading into town for a social activity such as a pub quiz.
Thursday
07:00 – 07:40 | Breakfast
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation Time
Participants prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning sessions and complete any final preparations for the day’s lessons.
08:00 – 11:00 | Gender Equality Project
Each session is with a different class, as every group participates once per week. Lessons start with attendance and an icebreaker, followed by the main educational activities. Sessions conclude with refreshments for the students.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the House
Participants have some free time to relax, read, or run errands such as visiting the supermarket.
12:30 – 13:00 | Lunch
13:00 – 16:00 | Village Tour / Community Project
Participants take part in the Village Tour, organised by the local women’s group. This is both an income-generating activity for the community and an opportunity for volunteers to experience local life in two different communities around Livingstone. Volunteers also get to taste traditional snacks.
If a participant has already joined the Village Tour, they instead take part in a community project such as a school or village initiative.
16:30 – 18:00 | Back at the House
Return to the base and enjoy some downtime before dinner.
18:00 – 18:30 | Dinner
18:30 onwards | Free Night
A relaxed evening to unwind at the house. Participants can play games, socialise, or enjoy some quiet time reading or reflecting on the day.
Friday
07:00 – 07:40 | Breakfast
07:40 – 08:00 | Preparation Time
Participants prepare juice and sandwiches for the morning sessions and finalise any last-minute preparations before heading to the project site.
08:00 – 11:00 | Gender Equality Project
Each session is with a different class, as every group participates once per week. Lessons start with attendance and an icebreaker, followed by the main educational activities. Sessions conclude with refreshments for the students.
11:00 – 12:00 | Back at the House
Free time to relax, read, or run errands such as visiting the local supermarket.
12:00 – 12:30 | Friday Check-In
Participants gather for a weekly check-in to provide feedback on the week, hear updates about the volunteer house, review weekend plans, and get briefed on any new arrivals.
12:30 – 13:30 | Cultural Meal
Enjoy a traditional Zambian lunch, often prepared in collaboration with local staff, giving volunteers a taste of local flavours and customs.
13:30 – 16:00 | Cultural Afternoon / Community Project
Participate in a cultural session at the backpackers’ boma, learning about Zambian life and traditions. Activities may include Q&A sessions, a “mock wedding” demonstration, and group drumming and dancing.
If a participant has already attended the cultural afternoon, they instead take part in a community project such as supporting a local school or village initiative.
18:30 – 19:30 | Dinner
19:30 onwards | Free Night
Relax at the house, play games, socialise, or enjoy some quiet time before the weekend.
Weekends
Weekends provide volunteers with a chance to relax, recharge, and explore the area around Livingstone. This is a perfect time to discover the local culture, nature, and attractions at your own pace.
Participants can choose from a range of optional activities such as visiting Victoria Falls, taking part in wildlife excursions, exploring local markets, or joining community tours. There are also plenty of opportunities to relax at the house, read, socialise, or enjoy games with fellow participants.
Please note: Additional Excursions are optional and to your own account. The schedule is flexible and the availability of excursions may vary depending on weather, local conditions, and group size.
Please note: This schedule is provided as a guideline to give an idea of a typical week. Activities, times, and locations may vary depending on weather, community needs, and other factors. Volunteers should remain flexible, and the project team will provide updates as needed.
About the Location
Livingstone, Zambia
Livingstone is one of Africa’s most exciting destinations, offering the perfect blend of adventure, culture, wildlife, and community. Best known as the gateway to the magnificent Victoria Falls, this vibrant Zambian town provides visitors with unforgettable experiences while creating opportunities to make a genuine positive impact.
Livingstone is packed with incredible activities. From sunset cruises on the Zambezi River and game drives to white-water rafting, cultural tours, and exploring one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, there’s no shortage of adventure. It’s the perfect destination for travellers looking to combine purpose with unforgettable memories.
Accommodation
You’ll live in shared housing in Livingstone, which includes:
- Shared bedrooms
- Communal areas for relaxing
- 3 prepared meals Monday-Friday
- A swimming pool
- Wi-Fi
The house is friendly and comfortable, providing a great base for the community work you’ll be involved in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this project
What will I do on the Gender Equality Project?
You’ll support initiatives that promote gender equality, women’s empowerment and community development in Livingstone. Activities can vary depending on the needs of the local community and current projects.
Do I need previous experience in gender equality or community development?
No. You don’t need professional experience to take part. You’ll receive guidance from the local team and have the opportunity to learn more about the challenges and opportunities surrounding gender equality in Zambia.
Who will I be working with?
You’ll work alongside the local project team and community members. Activities may involve supporting women and girls, educational initiatives, workshops and community-based programmes.
What skills can I gain from the project?
The project can help you develop skills in community engagement, communication, teamwork, education and project support, while gaining a deeper understanding of gender equality and local community initiatives.
What is there to do in Livingstone during my free time?
Livingstone is an exciting destination with plenty to explore outside of the project. You can experience Victoria Falls, local culture, wildlife and outdoor adventures, making it easy to combine meaningful project work with an unforgettable trip.
Pricing & Start Dates
Starts at GBP £1802
Starts Every Monday
2 weeks – 4 weeks
Focus: Community
Information
Pricing & Duration
| Duration | Price (GBP £) |
|---|---|
| 2 Weeks | 1,802 |
| 3 Weeks | 2,587 |
| 4 Weeks | 3,373 |
Project Starting Times
We can’t wait to meet you! All volunteers are required to arrive on a Monday to begin their projects.
2026 Start Dates:
October Dates: 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
November Dates: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
December Dates: 7th
2027 Start Dates:
12 April, 19 April, 26 April, 9 August, 16 August, 23 August
Additionally, ensure you check with your booking agent regarding the recommended airport for your transfers.
Project Includes
The project includes accommodation and full meals provided Monday – Friday
Airport transfers are available from a specific airport (please confirm with your booking agent).
All project-related transport, equipment, WIFI, and resources are included, along with support from our experienced 24-hour team.
Project Excludes
The project package does not cover the following items: flights to the designated location, expenses related to obtaining a visa, insurance costs, optional additional excursions, and any personal expenses you may incur during your participation.
And There’s More…
Livingstone is more than just a destination — it’s an adventure waiting around every corner. When you’re not getting involved in meaningful projects, there are endless ways to explore the beauty, culture, and excitement of Zambia.
Stand at the edge of the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, or enjoy a peaceful sunset cruise along the mighty Zambezi River as elephants and hippos gather along the banks. For thrill-seekers, Livingstone offers unforgettable experiences like white-water rafting, ziplining, canoeing, and scenic flights over the Falls.
From incredible wildlife encounters in nearby national parks to adrenaline-filled adventures, Livingstone offers the perfect balance of purpose, exploration, and unforgettable memories.