Volunteer Programme

The term "Volunteer" refers to a person who gives provides their services without compensation to Iwokrama. Volunteer positions are usually not advertised since volunteers are likely to pro-actively communicate with Iwokrama. Applications for voluntary work are accepted at any time. As an Iwokrama Volunteer, you will work to protect one of the last 4 pristine tropical forests in the world.

Volunteers work directly with an Iwokrama staff member and are expected to be self-motivated, creative, and willing to make a set time commitment based on project needs. Volunteer terms normally last from 1 to 6 months at a minimum of 15 hours per week - but successive project assignments and returning volunteers are welcomed! Upon completion of the project, the Volunteer is given an official letter of acknowledgement.

There is no salary or other compensation from Iwokrama to volunteers. A person who is sponsored by a charitable or voluntary organization, such as VSO or Peace Corps, is considered a volunteer.

General Requirements

• Minimum age of 16 years
• Possession of appropriate residence or immigration status in Guyana
• Possession of appropriate health insurance coverage
• Being in a state of good health (the appointee will sign a statement to this effect in accepting the appointment)
• Fluency in the English language

Assignment Station

Headquarters in Georgetown and/or the Field Station, depending on the nature of the project adopted.

Obligations and Privileges

• Iwokrama will provide administrative and other resources to effectively carry out the tasks under the assigned project to Volunteers during the period of their assignment
• Volunteers are eligible to participate in periodic activities of the Centre of educational, capacity-building or collaborative nature such as Brown Bag Lunch and Friends of Iwokrama presentations, and Foundation Day and public lectures.
• Volunteers are not staff members of the Iwokrama International Centre. An assignment as an Iwokrama Volunteer is a temporary appointment and is not designed to lead to a staff position within the Iwokrama International Centre.

Costs

Volunteers are expected to pay for their meals, accommodation, and transportation to and from the Field Station - at cost (i.e. nothing more than Iwokrama pays).  For information about current rates, please contact Ms. Melina Kalamandeen.