Program Overview
From October 5 to October 11, 2025, volunteers can visit and work with orphans at the Muslim Hands School of Excellence, witness clean water projects transform communities, and visit livelihood initiatives that empower locals and sustain lives. Your fundraising efforts will support important causes, helping children in Mali thrive, and build a brighter future.
Why Volunteer in Africa?
Volunteering in Africa offers a transformative experience, allowing you to:
· Support vulnerable communities in Mali, building leadership skills along the way
·Strengthen your communication, adaptability, and teamwork abilities in a setting that pushes you to grow
· Gain an understanding of global development and humanitarian work
After the trip, you can request a letter of reference to support your academic or career goals.
Whether you're exploring your passion for global service or seeking growth, a volunteer opportunity in Africa can broaden your perspective while changing lives.
Key Details
· Fundraising Target: CAD $5000 per volunteer (includes flights, meals, accommodation, and other expenses). The deadline to meet the fundraising target is Monday, September 15. Participants must raise 100% of the funds by this date.
· Registration Fee: A non-refundable registration fee of CAD $250 is required upon acceptance to the program. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, July 30.
Itinerary
| Location | Date | Start |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Travel to Mali | October 5, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 2: Arrival in Bamako,Mali | October 6, 2025 | 18:41 |
| Day 3: Visit Muslim Hands School of Excellence (MHSOE) | October 7, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Days 4 & 5: Visit Completed Model Villages | October 8, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 6: Visit Incomplete Model Villages | October 10, 2025 | 00:00 |
| Day 7 & 8 : Reflections & Departure | October 11, 2025 | 00:00 |
Eligibility Criteria
· Over 18 years
· Able to attend orientation and training sessions
· Driven by a desire to help others and create positive change
· Culturally aware and comfortable communicating with locals, including children
· Equipped with knowledge or training, whether formal education or hands-on experience
· Flexible and willing to adapt to new and sometimes challenging environments
· Complete all steps of the registration process and agree to the program’s terms and conditions
· Follow guidelines to ensure a safe and rewarding experience
· Get vaccinated against yellow fever
· Be in good health and maintain adequate fitness levels
· Ensure passport is valid for at least ten months beginning October, 2025
Essential Details for Your Trip
Fundraising Target
All selected participants must raise a minimum of CAD $5000.
Your funds will be used to support causes, giving children in Mali the opportunity to build a better tomorrow.
Fundraising Tips
1. Register
2. Set up your fundraising page (GoFundMe, Kickstarter, Just Giving)
3. Raise awareness through social media, mosques, community organizations, and businesses or plan an activity such as a bake sale
Registration Process
Registration deadline: Wednesday, July 30, 2025
·Upon registration, the fee is due, otherwise you have up to 30 days after completing the registration form to submit payment.
·Fundraising deadline: Monday, September 15, 2025
·All participants are required to raise 100% of the total fundraising target ( $5,000 by this date).
Volunteer Requirements
·Minimum age of 18
·Yellow fever vaccination required
·A reasonable level of health and fitness
·Passports must hold a minimum of ten months validity starting October, 2025.
·All parts of the registration process must be completed.
·All terms and conditions must be read and accepted, guidelines must be adhered to, and any other measures must be taken to ensure a safe and successful trip.
Travel Checklist
Essentials items that you must carry:
· Lightweight, breathable clothing, including long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts in basic colors (white, beige, black)
· Comfortable pants such as black jogging bottoms or cargos and a light jacket for cooler evenings
· Comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers and sandals
· Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, personal hygiene products, and refillable water bottles
· Basic first aid kit, insect repellents, personal medications, and oral rehydration salts
· Power bank, universal adapter, chargers, and all relevant devices you need
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Muslim Hands Canada will cover flights, accommodation, meals, and logistics.
A. All meals will be halal and alcohol free. Traditional local food will be provided throughout the trip. If you have specific dietary requirements, please let us know.
A. To ensure your health and safety, all participants will be accompanied by a Muslim Hands representative to ensure you’ll receive timely care in case of an emergency.
A. Yes, all participants are advised to take care of their insurance needs.
A. Anyone aged 18 or above who is looking for a unique experience can take part. The group will include ten volunteers with people of all ages and from all backgrounds. A willingness to work as part of a team is important. You will make friends for life. If you’re positive and enthusiastic, and want the challenge of both fundraising and seeing projects come to life, this can be an experience of a lifetime.
A. The average temperature in October in Mali is 30-35°C. Overnight temperatures are generally warm, but a light jacket is recommended.
A. If you wish to extend your stay, please get in touch with us. Any extra costs incurred must be covered by yourself.
Muslim Hands Canada is an international aid agency and NGO working globally to help those affected by natural disasters, conflict and poverty. Muslim Hands Canada is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (Charity Registration No. 81126 4985 RR0001).