The Pioneer
volunteer programs start in the first week of January,
April, July and October each year and last for ten weeks.
Shorter periods are available upon request. Pioneers
spend about three weeks working in Fort Dauphin and
about seven working in rural villages.
Camping facilities are provided for Pioneers throughout
the scheme, although Pioneers do need to bring their
own tent! Facilities are basic especially when working
in rural areas. There will always be latrine and private
washing facilities. Electricity and piped water are
available when in Fort Dauphin, however in the field
we collect and then treat water from rivers and wells.
Volunteers should be prepared for physical work, adventurous
road journeys, and long walks to reach remote and beautiful
project sites. The work and lifestyle is challenging
but incomparably rewarding.
All meals are provided for Pioneers throughout the scheme.
Meals mainly consist of rice, beans, vegetables and
fruit. Fish (or eggs for vegetarians) are provided when
possible. All meals are prepared and cooked by the group,
often in open-air facilities. The best possible treated
drinking water is always available.
A team of Malagasy staff travel and work with the group
to offer translation and advice on Malagasy culture,
to ensure that the group is safe and that they are able
to interact with local communities. Also travelling
and working with the group is the Pioneer co-ordinator.
Often an ex-Pioneer, the coordinators' role is to ensure
that the group is happy, healthy and busy at all times!
This ensures that Pioneers have full support and encouragement
to understand and appreciate the very different culture
and environment that Pioneer takes you into.
A satellite telephone travels with the Pioneers at all
times to ensure that you can be safely returned to Fort
Dauphin to a doctor within just a few hours if necessary.
Pioneers work in areas where few tourists visit; weekends
are free for you to explore the lush forests, stunning
beaches and the joys of interacting with local people.
Evenings spent listening to local children singing and
joining in with traditional dance are some of the most
precious memories that returning Pioneers bring home.
