We work at the forefront of wildlife rescue and conservation – and you could too

The research volunteer placement was more than I could have imagined. I felt part of the team and that I was making a small but very real contribution to conservation efforts in Malawi. Plus, I learned a huge amount about the wildlife of Liwonde, and the threats to wildlife and habitats throughout the country. I loved every single day there and didn’t want to leave. Every small thing is a reward for your efforts, and the payoff is immense. If you are unsure about whether this placement is for you, I would urge you to do it. It is an experience like nothing else and is sure to leave an impression on your soul.

Making a difference, learning new skills and living in the bush was exactly what I wanted from a volunteering experience. It was a real privilege to spend time in Liwonde – the animals are beautiful, the scenery is mind-blowing and the people made the whole experience even more special. To anyone out there, at any age and career stage or path, who might be tempted, I would highly encourage you to go ahead and book on!

I would have extended my stay because I liked it so much! For me, it didn’t really feel like work – it is very exciting because you never know what will happen the next day. I was not just doing veterinary work as I know it – I had the opportunity to experience related fields like integration, enrichment, research. You will work with so many different animals but all of it would just be half of the fun if the people weren’t that nice. All of them were so friendly and will help you whenever you need it. It is an amazing experience and totally worth it.

I am now a lot more fearless in pursuing my personal goals, and this experience has reawakened a dream I had as a child to work with wildlife. My placement went far beyond my expectations, and I would highly recommend it to anyone. The feeling of having an animal you helped with finally being released back into the wild is unparalleled.

I loved Malawi and really enjoyed my time working in animal care. The highlight was looking after an orphan baboon named Toast - since she needed around-the-clock care, I felt like I was genuinely making a difference as the staff team didn’t have time to sit with her 24/7. I also wasn’t expecting to have my views of hyenas overturned - but the Centre’s four rescued hyenas certainly did that! Although some of the work was challenging, I learned a huge deal about myself. I'm home now and volunteering with my local wildlife trust, so still doing what I can to support wildlife.

The wildlife sightings in Liwonde National Park are stunning! The small volunteer groups also allow everyone to get involved and truly become a part of the research team. It was amazing seeing the work that goes on behind the scenes. I learned so much and my journal quickly became my own field guide filled with fun facts, questionable drawings, and unforgettable memories! The whole team at LWT was so supportive and welcoming. I was added to a WhatsApp group before even leaving England – this helped me feel less nervous about my first time travelling alone. Volunteering with Lilongwe Wildlife Trust is perfect for anyone with an interest in wildlife! You’ll see African wildlife from a new perspective and help make a positive impact.