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Empowering Indigenous Youth and Protecting the Amazon Through Education
The Volunteering in Ecuador 2026: Education for Amazon’s Sustainable Future Project is an extraordinary fully funded opportunity for young people eager to contribute to environmental protection, intercultural exchange, and youth empowerment in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth — the Ecuadorian Amazon. Led by ENGIM and PAKASHKA-SACHA, the program integrates education, environmental conservation, and social development to support indigenous communities and protect their ancestral lands.
This unique initiative combines fieldwork, academic support, community outreach, and environmental engagement. Volunteers assist in empowering indigenous youth through education and vocational training while learning firsthand about the Amazon rainforest, one of the world’s most vital ecosystems. If you are passionate about sustainability, education, cultural exchange, and meaningful humanitarian action, this program offers an unforgettable experience.
A Mission Rooted in Sustainability, Culture, and Human Development
ENGIM and PAKASHKA-SACHA work together to protect both the biodiversity of the Amazon and the cultural heritage of indigenous peoples such as the Kichwa. These communities face increasing environmental pressures, social challenges, and threats to their ancestral knowledge. Education is a powerful tool that strengthens resilience, opens opportunities, and encourages youth to pursue higher studies and skilled professions.
The project aims to:
- Empower young people in the Amazon through education and professional development
- Promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices within local communities
- Strengthen intercultural dialogue between volunteers and indigenous populations
- Support biodiversity conservation and forest protection
- Provide academic and vocational support to children, teenagers, and young adults
- Preserve cultural traditions while encouraging modern skills and opportunities
This holistic approach ensures sustainable long-term impact for both the people and the environment.
Volunteer Responsibilities: Meaningful Work in the Heart of the Amazon
Volunteers participate in several areas of activity, gaining extensive hands-on experience while supporting the center’s daily operations and educational programs.
1. Support the Student Residence and Daily Activities
Volunteers live and work alongside indigenous youth in a residence that also serves as an educational center. Tasks include:
- Assisting with the daily routine and organization of shared spaces
- Supporting residential life and helping maintain the surrounding primary forest
- Contributing to the well-being and personal development of students
This creates a close-knit, intercultural learning environment.
2. Assist Vocational Training and Tutoring
Volunteers play a key role in:
- Helping youth with vocational courses
- Offering tutoring and academic support
- Encouraging students to complete their studies and pursue higher education
Your presence helps young people gain confidence, discipline, and motivation.
3. Support Teachers in Rural Schools
In collaboration with local educators, volunteers may:
- Assist in classroom activities
- Provide tutoring to children
- Help develop non-formal learning projects
- Support teachers in remote schools with limited resources
This ensures children receive the attention and encouragement they need.
4. Support English Teaching
Volunteers collaborate with an English school to deliver:
- Basic to intermediate English classes for children
- Adult English learning workshops
- Interactive language activities
Strong English skills help youth access more opportunities in tourism, conservation, and education.
5. Administrative and Communication Support
Volunteers also contribute to:
- Updating records, reports, and educational materials
- Supporting digital communication tasks
- Assisting with internal organization and educational planning
This strengthens the center’s capacity and long-term sustainability.
6. Environmental Engagement
Volunteers may participate in:
- Biodiversity conservation activities
- Reforestation efforts
- Environmental education workshops
- Community engagement on sustainability topics
These activities deepen the connection between education and environmental responsibility.
Accommodation, Food & Transport Arrangements
The program is fully funded, guaranteeing a safe and supportive living environment.
Accommodation
Volunteers live in the student residence, a shared space that functions as:
- A living area
- A training center
- A meeting point for youth and volunteers
Basic utilities are provided, though occasional interruptions may occur due to local conditions.
Food
Meals are provided by Pakashka Sacha and shared with other residents, fostering community life and cultural exchange.
Monthly Allowance
Volunteers receive a €680 monthly allowance to cover:
- Daily expenses
- Local transportation
- Personal needs
Additionally:
- A laptop is provided
- Mobile phone expenses are reimbursed
Depending on scheduling needs, volunteers may sometimes work weekends with time off compensated accordingly.
Training During the Activity
To ensure volunteers are fully prepared and supported, extensive training is provided before and during the experience.
1. Pre-Departure Training
Volunteers receive preparation covering:
- Humanitarian principles
- Safety and security
- Ecuadorian culture and political context
- Program-specific knowledge
2. On-Site Training
Upon arrival, volunteers participate in training on:
- Intercultural approaches
- The Ecuadorian educational system
- Biodiversity and conservation methods
- Communication and team coordination
3. Continuous Learning
Volunteers have access to:
- Training materials
- Regular briefings
- Mentorship from ENGIM technical and social staff
This ensures a meaningful learning experience and structured professional development.
Participant Profile: Who Can Apply?
ENGIM and PAKASHKA-SACHA welcome motivated, adaptable volunteers ready to live in a rural Amazonian environment.
Ideal candidates have:
Personal Qualities
- Motivation to live in a rural area with limited leisure opportunities
- Flexibility and a collaborative spirit
- Respect for cultural diversity
- Ability to adapt to challenging weather and living conditions
- Commitment to safety protocols
Educational Background (Preferred but not required)
- Education
- Environmental sciences
- Languages
- Social sciences
Useful Experience
- Teaching or tutoring children
- Working with youth groups
- Community development
Skills and Competencies
- Strong interpersonal and intercultural communication
- Problem-solving mindset
- Proactivity, adaptability, and teamwork
Languages
- Spanish: minimum B1
- English: minimum B2
The residence operates only in Spanish and English, so a good command of both languages is essential.
Eligibility Requirements
- Applicants must be 18–35 years old
- Must reside in an eligible country (EU Member State, North Macedonia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Turkey)
- Must have completed EU Humanitarian Aid Volunteering training
- Must not have previously participated in EU Humanitarian Aid Volunteering
- Total EU volunteering experience (past and present) must not exceed 12 months
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this program fully funded?
Yes, volunteers receive accommodation, meals, a €680 allowance, travel support, and equipment.
2. Do I need Spanish skills?
Yes. A minimum B1 level of Spanish is required to communicate with local communities.
3. Is the living environment rural?
Yes. The project is located in a remote Amazonian area with basic but functional conditions.
4. What kind of activities will I perform?
Educational support, tutoring, English teaching, administrative work, environmental engagement, and residence support.
5. What type of training will I receive?
Volunteers receive pre-departure, on-site, and ongoing training in education, culture, and environmental conservation.
6. Can beginners apply?
Yes, as long as you meet the age, citizenship, and language requirements.