Become a volunteer

How to join a SWORDE-Teppa project

1. Choose your preferred project and date of availability. You can check our current projects in the menu item Projects.
2. To reserve your place, contact the volunteer programme at: administration@sworde-teppa.org.
3. We will send an e-mail of confirmation, registration forms to be completed and returned to SWORDE-Teppa and a briefing document containing details on your chosen project.
4. You book your travel. You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements but we will happy to provide advice and assistance.
5. You join your team in the field and have a great experience. It’s that easy.

For your consideration

• Insurance: It is essential that volunteers arrange travel insurance to cover all their needs, including medical expenses, accident, evacuation, baggage loss, delays and personal liability expenses.
• For your consideration

Frequently Asked Questions

Will it be for me?

SWORDE-Teppa projects are not holidays. You will be involved with actual projects within our objects as an organisation. That is real research and or real participation in the projects. We will make every effort to describe field conditions as accurately as possible, but field work in remote locations can be prone to last minute changes. This small possibility of change can be accepted as part of the SWORDE-Teppa experience.

What size are the groups?

The international group size will vary from project to project. However, groups will generally be small of between one and five people. You will join and work with a project team of nationals.

Who else will be on my team?

SWORDE-Teppa volunteers will come from a variety of backgrounds. All of them will share the same interests which made them choose the same project as you. You will also work with local volunteers and staff.

Is someone going to pick me up from the airport?

You will be met by one of the projects senior staff. The rendezvous will be at the nearest international or regional airport. You will then be driven to the destination. Please check the location in each project description.

Do I need any specific skills?

Some projects will require specific skills, others will not. For non-specific skilled projects, you will be taught all you need to know by project staff once you arrive. Most tasks are simple and can soon be mastered. Some projects will require high levels of fitness and others will require specific skills from highly qualified people. Please check in the project description.

Do I need language skills?

No language skills are necessary. The common language spoken on all our projects is English, although some of our national volunteers and staff are not English speakers. If you have skills in other languages of the region, then this would be of great benefit to you and the projects as a whole. Common languages spoken in Tajikistan are Russian, Tajik and Uzbek. Interpreter / translators will be with you at all times to assist if necessary. SWORDE-Teppa projects will also give you the bonus opportunity to pick up additional language skills and to start learning a new language.

What happens if I have some health issues?

If you have a particular health requirement, whether a physical disability or a specific medical condition, call us and we will do our best to find a suitable place. We must point out that health facilities in Tajikistan are not up to standard and thus we stress the need for you to arrange all medications and bring them with you. We cannot guarantee that you will be able to find specific medications in Tajikistan.

What if I’m on a special diet?

We can cater for a range of dietary needs. However, when working in remote areas, the diet may well reflect what is locally available. Please check with us if in any doubt and we will do our best to cater for your needs.

Do I need to be fit?

Fitness levels required will vary between projects. Most are suitable for every fitness level but some are physically demanding and require very fit volunteers. These projects are clearly marked, but if in doubt please give us a call. We must also point out that there are extremes in temperatures in Tajikistan and the summers can be very hot. Please check with us for temperatures during the year.

Am I too old?

You are never too old for SWORDE-Teppa, the many nationals you will be assisting and the thousands of beneficiaries of your team’s work. However, please be realistic when choosing your project and call us if you would like more information about any physical demands.

Can I stay for longer?

We make it our business for you to enjoy the experience and there would be no greater indicator than your desire to stay longer. We would therefore do our best to allow you to stay longer, subject to places available. You may continue with the same project or may wish to switch to another. We can also advise you on travel elsewhere in the region before or after your time in the project. However, you must be responsible for additional visa, travel and insurance requirements, but again we can advise.

What do I need to bring with me?

The briefing document will have a full list of everything that you will need to take with you. Certain projects may require camping equipment, while others specify clothing needs, etc.

How can I know if I’m correctly following the local customs?

SWORDE-Teppa stresses the need for responsible behaviour and common courtesy when travelling. The people are generous and friendly in the country of operation, however when in doubt about what will, or will not cause offence, be sure to ask the national staff. It’s their country, so they will know. Try wherever possible to learn and respect local customs, as being involved with the community is one of the rare privileges of life. It is a good idea to do some background reading about the area that you are visiting and by asking SWORDE-Teppa staff any questions that you may have.

Can I take pictures for my social media?

We fully recommend that you take as many photos as you like. Taking a photo is not going to interfere with the projects and may well benefit them. SWORDE-Teppa projects give you a unique way of getting where normal travel doesn’t allow and infinite opportunities for photography. However, there are some things to remember; always ask permission before taking a photo as people may find it intrusive and check with the project staff whether it is appropriate.

Can I travel the country while volunteering?

We ensure that you will have plenty of free time. It will not all be hard work. The project manager will designate free days and free periods etc. At least two days per week (weekends) are generally allowed, plus evenings, etc. The national staff will also recommend a number of local sights and attractions nearby that would be worth visiting. Alternatively, you may wish to rest and put your feet up in friendly and relaxing surroundings. We leave the choice to you.

We are waiting for you!