WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
IMMERSIVE
Imagine feeling at home in a village nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, or in a community near the source of the Nile—places far from where you grew up. Cultural immersion offers a unique way to experience the world. It means placing yourself at the heart of a community, learning about its culture, and engaging with people whose lives may be vastly different from your own. It’s about sharing your skills and knowledge in ways that are meaningful to them. More than just seeing the sights, it’s about making lifelong connections and gaining a genuine understanding of how others see the world—and why. It’s learning that your perspective is just one of many.
IMPACTFUL
When you live and work in a community as a local would, you gain a deeper understanding of daily life—and make a meaningful contribution by sharing your time, energy, and skills. Staying for an extended period means you’re not just passing through; you become a genuinely valued member of the community.
This kind of volunteering is both challenging and rewarding. It opens the door to greater understanding—of the world, of others, and of yourself. We challenge you NOT to return home a more well-rounded, worldly-wise individual.
Time and again, our volunteers form lasting bonds with the people, places, and cultures they engage with. These experiences shape not just a trip, but a worldview. Many go on to become lifelong global citizens—more aware, more connected, and more compassionate.
INDEPENDENT
We’re proud to be a fully independent organisation. That means we run and manage all our volunteering projects directly — no third-party agents, no outsourcing, and no hidden partners.
When you volunteer with us, you’re more than just a number. We take the time to get to know you and support you in reaching your personal goals. Because we know every project firsthand and maintain close relationships with local communities, we’re fully accountable for your experience from start to finish.
Our independence allows us to ensure your contribution is meaningful, your support goes where it’s truly needed, and your journey is transparent and well-supported.
It also means we can respond quickly, adapt responsibly, and stay focused on what matters most: long-term, community-led impact.
WHAT SKILLS WILL I LEARN?
Our volunteering projects are designed to challenge, inspire, and empower young people. With Africa & Asia Venture (AV), you’ll gain hands-on experience and skills that will benefit you for life.
Confidence & Independence
Resilience & Adaptability
Leadership & Initiative
Teamwork & Collaboration
Problem Solving & Critical Thinking
Communication (verbal & cross-cultural)
Self-Awareness & Reflection
Global Perspective
“It’s been almost 10 years since I traveled to northern India with AV and yet at parties and ice breakers I still find myself referring to the experiences and attitudes I learnt there, as a defining part of my character.
I would recommend this experience to anyone looking to gain a different perspective on life, while having fun and meeting lifelong friends in the process!”
Gap Year 100
Our gap year and summer programs are open to anyone aged 17-25.
Our only limitation is that we are committed to taking a maximum of 100 students per year on our gap year programs.
As a non-profit, AV’s focus is on providing both volunteers and our partner communities with the best experience possible and by limiting our numbers we ensure we can treat every applicant individually and place them where they can have the most impact.
Becoming an AV volunteer is more than just joining a gap year program, it’s a community of individuals with shared experiences and we are with you long after you get back from the project.
Once an AV, always an AV! [#onceanAV]
Gappers
Join a group of like-minded gap year volunteers in one community for 5 to 16 weeks.
Short on time?
Are you heading straight to uni or an undergrad on your summer holidays? This project is for you.
Schools
Take learning beyond the classroom with a life-changing school trip to Kenya.