Your time there.
What will you actually do?
You're not being sent in as a teacher. You're there to connect, support, and be present — and that turns out to be one of the most valuable things you can offer. Every volunteer finds their own way in.
In the classroom.
Work alongside teachers and get involved as much or as little as feels right. Previous volunteers have run:
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Arts and crafts sessions.
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Sports and games.
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Reading and storytelling.
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Career conversations with older students.
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Their own interactive and engaging sessions, if they wanted to.
In the community.
Memusi's work goes beyond the classroom, and so does yours. Depending on the trip you may be involved in:
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Medical and health outreach camps.
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Community events and gatherings.
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Meeting the families behind the children.
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Seeing the wider Maasai community up close.
In the evenings.
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After school, the pace shifts. Evenings at the house are when the trip really comes together.
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Planning the next day's sessions.
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Sharing what you've noticed and experienced.
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Connecting with your fellow volunteers.
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Downtime — this is Kenya, after all.
A word on resources. The schools have limited supplies — so if you plan to run activities, come prepared. Bring whatever you need. Things that are always gratefully received: pencils and stationery, clothes, and shoes. Your trip lead will talk you through what to bring before you go.
The schools & accommodation.
Where you will be.
Memusi A School.
~ 300 students - Ages 3-15
The original Memusi school, built with the community it serves. For children, the day starts early with a walk of several miles to get to school — so don't be surprised to see a few of the youngest ones napping. For many, the breakfast and lunch provided may be the only meals they have that day.
Class sizes run up to 30.
Where you'll stay.
You'll be based in a bungalow in Magadi township, around 20 minutes from Memusi A. Bedrooms are shared with other volunteers of the same sex — unless you're travelling as a couple.
Bathrooms are western style. Hot water is usually available, though occasionally there may be none at all — that's part of the experience, and it's fine. A local cook provides three home-cooked meals a day: traditional Kenyan food, rice, meat, vegetables. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
There's limited Wi-Fi via dongle in the evenings — good enough for messages and a photo or two. Local SIM cards are available at Nairobi airport if you want more regular connectivity.
Tea, coffee, soft drinks, beer and cider are included at the house. Breakfast and dinner are at the bungalow. Lunch is at school.
Memusi B School.
~ 650 students - Ages 3-15
Known locally as Memusi B — the second school we built. Larger than the first, and just as full of children who are passionate about learning and hungry for every interaction volunteers bring.
School runs 8am–5pm. You'll usually head off around 8am and leave around 4:30pm. Expect the schedule to vary day to day, and expect some long, full days.
Don't just take our word for it.
"Before our first visit to Memusi last summer, my husband said that once you’ve been, you’ll want to go back. He was right, it was amazing. Our £15 a month means the world to the students and their families - meeting Seleyan, the girl we sponsor, and then her dad, who walked miles to thank us was very humbling.
Everyday was different, and seeing our son and daughter (also on the trip) interact with the students was fantastic, and while volunteering at the medical camp we had fundraised for was really inspiring.
In many ways, a couple of weeks playing basic games, blowing bubbles and watching kids running to catch them is the perfect antidote to our complicated life at home."
Julie R
"Its a once in a lifetime experience...or 3 in my case as each time I have had the privilege of learning so much...go with curiosity and an open mind to make the most amazing memories"
Deb
"It makes you revaluate life and recognise what's important - everyone should try and do this trip or something like it"
Dawn
"A step outside your comfort zone and seeing life from a different viewpoint"
Karen
"Life changing, not a cliché just reflection"
Lisa
"Volunteering in Kenya with the Memusi Foundation was an experience that I will never forget.
Travelling with my dad, I had the opportunity to learn about the Maasai community by visiting their Manyattas, attending a traditional church service, and trying Kenyan food. While there, we also visited a giraffe sanctuary and hot springs, which were just some of the incredible activities organised by our amazing group leaders.
What truly made the trip stand out, however, was the kindness of the children and staff at the school, their warmth, gratitude, and positivity made every moment unforgettable. Overall, the trip was eye-opening and genuinely life-changing, and I truly hope to return in the future."
Lily, age 16
Cost & what is included.
Everything you need to know.
£769
Per person.
Flights, visa, and anti-malarial medication are not included in this cost.
Most volunteers fly into Nairobi; we handle everything from there.
Groups are up to 6 volunteers.
What is included.
Accommodation in Magadi.
All meals in Magadi.
Beer, cider and soft drinks at the house.
All in-country transport.
Airport pick-up and drop-off (in Kenya).
Experienced trip lead from UK and local rep.
What is not included.
Flights and visa.
Anti-malarial tablets / vaccinations.
Meals in Nairobi.
Nairobi accommodation if needed (~£40/night).
Spending money for snacks or market purchases.
Age: Volunteers must be 18 or over. If you're thinking about bringing a younger family member (12+), please get in touch — we've had families visit before and we're happy to talk it through.
Take the first step.
Ready to find out more?
Tell us a little about yourself and which dates interest you. We'll be in touch within 2 working days. No commitment required — this is just the start of the conversation.
What happens next.
We will send you our full volunteer information pack.
You will hear from a previous volunteer who can answer any of your questions.
We will talk through any specific needs or circumstances.
When you are ready, we will confirm your place.
Your trip lead will be in touch in advance to discuss your visit in more detail and answer any questions.