Palmera Projects
Sri Lanka
Palmera offers young people the opportunity to participate in hands-on projects in Sri Lanka. Since 2004, groups of young people from Sydney have travelled together to the Vanni region in Sri Lanka to share their language, musical, legal, commercial and technical skills. The volunteer program is a great way to learn about Sri Lanka and share the skills and knowledge you have been privileged enough to acquire with those less fortunate.
Our program is ideal if you are:
• Aged 18 to 35
• Motivated to make a difference
• Interested in learning about NE Sri Lanka
• Available for 5 to 12 weeks
Our projects require a deep commitment and engagement on your part. Once you are on project, the work schedule can be demanding and living conditions are very basic. But the rewards are immense - you will tap into hidden personal resources, push yourself to new heights and make a difference.
What sort of things can I do?
The program is very flexible and volunteers are encouraged to direct and plan their own programs based on their personal expertise and interests. Generally, volunteers have been involved in grass root level development work. Over the years Palmera volunteers have engaged in a wide variety of activities - teaching English and music, implementing IT and accounting systems, translating and volunteering at local hospitals. If you are unsure about what you'd like to do, the volunteer's coordinator will be happy to discuss your options with you. However Palmera has developed a comprehensive and tailored English teaching resource for Sri Lanka and encourages volunteers to utilize this option, leaving themselves open to other projects that may arise whilst on the program.
How long is the volunteer program?
Palmera encourages participants to volunteer for at least one month. On average volunteer programs are around 6 weeks, however longer programs can be organised.
How does the program work?
After sending an expression of interest to the volunteer coordinator, someone from Palmera will be in contact with you to discuss program dates. Generally, we try to find a two month period that is suitable for most interested volunteers and tend to organise programs around the university/school breaks. Prior to departure, volunteers will meet regularly to discuss their impending trip, meet previous volunteers and part take in some pre-departure training (including basic language and cultural etiquette). Palmera will then put you in contact with a local organisation, and organise transport and accommodation for you where possible. There will also be opportunities to learn more about and explore Sri Lanka on weekends and in the evenings. Upon arrival back in Australia, you will be invited to attend a debriefing dinner and often our volunteers are asked to share their experiences with the larger Palmera group and other community organisations.
Do I have to speak the language?
No, there is no need to speak Tamil. We have had several volunteers who speak little or no Tamil. In fact, we've found some of the most successful English teachers aren't native speakers! Of course, you won't be left completely in the dark. On each program, we ensure that there is at least one native speaker.
How much will it cost?
Volunteers generally cover their own airfares while in the past Palmera has organised transport, food, accommodation and some volunteering resources whilst in the Vanni. For budgeting purposes, we suggest you also budget to pay for a few meals and snacks yourselves, as well as some transport and resource costs. Unfortunately, Palmera is unable to cover your airfares.