South Africa: Global Health & Advocacy Project™

THIS PROGRAM IS NOT OPERATING FOR THE 2022 SEASON. IT IS CURRENTLY PLANNED TO RETURN IN 2023. SEE SESSION DATES FOR 2023 BELOW.

Highlights

Travel to rural South Africa, where you’ll help provide crucial health education to a community in a secluded village town.

Experience true cultural immersion in a rural South African community
Observe community health workers in a mobile health clinic
Learn about the challenges of providing healthcare in remote areas of the African continent
Hike the Drakensberg mountains, famous for its many peaks and magnificent scenery
Zipline amidst the stunning natural beauty of the mountains

On This Program you will...

Live in Geluksburg, which means “happy mountains” in rural KwaZulu Natal. This rural village town, like many others, has limited resources for primary health care and basic first aid. Become accustomed to the Zulu culture as you participate in a home visit and explore the places where traditional and western medicine intersect. Meet with the local chief and eat a traditional meal. The rolling mist and tranquility of the surrounding Drakensberg mountain peaks will make for a one-of-a-kind experience on the southern tip of the African continent.

Program Type:

Public Health & Medicine

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Community Service

Public health is an ongoing issue in South Africa: An access gap for health care facilities exist between upper and lower socio-economic households. Raise awareness in the community of Geluksburg, a community where primary health care options are currently non-existent through advocacy. Facilitate nourishment and healthy living workshops with local students and their parents, providing them with basic wellness kits and information on how to utilize them. Students will learn about the importance of a balanced diet and how to maintain a diet within a low budget.

Immersive Learning

Immerse yourself in a Zulu community with a home visit, dancing and drumming lessons, and a visit to a traditional healer. Meet with the local Chief and learn about Zulu culture and history. You’ll see why healthcare in rural South Africa is so crucial – the access gap between urban and rural parts of the country has a big effect on the public health system. Observe health care workers and visit local clinics in Geluksburg, then compare and contrast the public and private health care systems.

Adventure

Hike part of the Drakensberg mountain range, known for its famous peaks and brimming with incredible waterfalls, streams, caves, crisp mountain air and spectacular views. This UNESCO World Heritage Site draws both locals and tourists from around the globe alike. You will also get the chance to go ziplining through the stunning forest canopy and enjoy a unique birds-eye view of landscapes unique to this region of South Africa.

Lodging

You’ll spend your first night in Johannesburg in a cozy guesthouse, and then depart as a group on day 2 to your Home Base, a converted farmhouse nestled in a remote community. Students will stay in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, and have access to en suite bathrooms with hot water showers. Wake up every day to the amazing scenic views of the Drakensberg mountain range. This Home Base is located in the heart of the community where you’ll work on your service project.