About Us
Welcome to the captivating realm of Maya Universe, an extraordinary volunteer destination that has enchanted countless individuals seeking purpose and adventure. For over a decade, our sanctuary of empowerment has welcomed volunteers from diverse backgrounds, offering an unparalleled experience.
Immerse yourself in the warmth of our community, where lifelong connections is forged amidst the vibrant tapestry of Nepali culture. Engage in evening reflections and discussions, igniting your passion and preparing for rewarding days of making a difference.
Embark on exhilarating hikes, indulge in hilltop breakfasts with panoramic vistas, and relish local dinners that tantalize your taste buds, all while basking in the breathtaking beauty of Nepal. Our experienced coordinators and skilled managers provides unwavering support, ensuring your personal growth and comfort every step of the way.
At the heart of Maya Universe lies our thriving school, a beacon of hope and transformation. Witness the tangible impact of your efforts as you empower the local community and become part of their journey toward grassroots development.
Escape to Maya Universe, where purpose meets adventure, and where you'll find yourself embraced by a profound sense of fulfillment and unforgettable memories. Join us and embark on an extraordinary volunteering experience that will forever changes your life.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
- Build Meaningful Connections: Form genuine relationships with students through daily classroom activities, mentorship, and cultural exchange.
- Teach with Creativity: Design engaging lessons, games, arts, music, storytelling, and interactive activities that inspire curiosity and a love of learning.
- Support Quality Education: Assist local teachers in creating a positive, inclusive, and enjoyable learning environment for every child.
- Experience Authentic Nepali Culture: Become part of the Maya community, share everyday life with students and staff, and gain a deeper understanding of rural Nepal.
- Develop Valuable Skills: Strengthen your communication, leadership, adaptability, and cross-cultural teaching abilities while making a real impact.
- Empower the Next Generation: Encourage confidence, creativity, and lifelong learning by sharing your knowledge and unique perspectives with students.
- Create Lasting Memories: Experience the joy of watching students grow while building friendships and memories that will stay with you long after your volunteer journey ends.
- Make Every Day Meaningful: Every lesson, conversation, and smile contributes to Maya Universe Academy's mission of providing free, high-quality education to children in underserved communities.
Requirements
Minimum Age: 18 years
In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.
Language Skills:
You need to speak English at an intermediate level.
Nationality Restrictions:
No restriction. Helping hands from all over the world is welcome.
Other Skills:
Regarding the construction program, no particular skills are needed. Our coordinators will manage activities according to your skills and experiences, matched with the needs and available resources during arrival.
Time Commitment:
Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10:00 - 17:00.
Volunteer experience
- 8:00 AM – Start your day with breakfast alongside the children.
- 9:30 AM – Join the morning assembly, featuring news, poetry, music, dance, team games, and the national anthem. On Fridays, volunteers and teachers take part in the performances.
- 10:30 AM – Classes begin. Your teaching schedule will be displayed on the whiteboard, and you'll work alongside local teachers, supporting lessons and leading creative activities with the students.
- 1:45 PM – Lunch break. Volunteers enjoy lunch in the Old Kitchen, where you're welcome to prepare and share dishes from your home country.
- 5:00 PM – The school day ends. You can join sports and extracurricular activities with the students or even organise your own games, workshops, or creative sessions.
- 7:00 PM – Share a traditional Nepali dinner with the children in the New Kitchen, followed by a planning meeting with the coordinators.
- Evening – Relax and enjoy your free time. Read a book, gather around a campfire, have a coffee or a beer, chat with fellow volunteers, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and friendships you've built.
$140/week
Volunteers stay in the main school building in a shared hostel-style accommodation that provides a welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere. Basic bedding is provided, including a mattress, bed sheet, pillow, and mosquito net. During the cooler months (October to March), we recommend bringing a sleeping bag for additional warmth.
Shared facilities include:
- Shared toilets and washing facilities
- Wi-Fi access
- Volunteer kitchen and common hangout area
- Personal lockers
For those who prefer more privacy, the following private accommodation options are available at an additional cost:
Avocado Rooms – US$15 per night (per room):
- Two private single rooms:
-Attached private bathroom with shower
- Ideal for solo volunteers
Twin Rooms – US$11 per person, per night:
- Two rooms, each with two beds
- Private veranda
- Suitable for couples, friends, or family members traveling together
Simple Rooms – US$8 per person, per night:
- Two rooms accommodating up to two people each
- Shared bathroom facilities
- Comfortable and budget-friendly option
- Food & Meals
We provide three meals a day for volunteers. Breakfast and dinner typically consist of traditional Nepali cuisine, including rice, lentil soup (dal), seasonal vegetables, and occasionally eggs or meat. Whenever possible, we use fresh organic vegetables grown in our gardens, nearby villages, and the students' homes. Fresh fruit is also available for purchase in the nearby town of Damauli.
We have two kitchens on campus:
- New Kitchen
The New Kitchen is open to everyone, including students, staff, and volunteers. All three daily meals are served here for students and staff, and the kitchen is managed by Chitra Didi. Located near the student hostel and water area, it is a welcoming place where everyone gathers to eat and socialize. To maintain a family-friendly environment, smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited in this area.
- Old Kitchen
The Old Kitchen is a dedicated space for volunteers. Lunch is provided here each day, and volunteers are also welcome to prepare their own meals or snacks using the fully equipped kitchen, which includes cooking stoves, an oven, and a refrigerator. This shared space is a popular place for volunteers to cook together, exchange recipes, and spend time with one another. Smoking and alcohol consumption are permitted only in this designated area.
1. Community & On-Campus Activities
- Workshops & Classes
Take part in drama sessions, yoga classes, and a variety of workshops for both students and volunteers. Volunteers are also encouraged to share their own skills and lead creative activities.
- Sports & Games
Enjoy daily sports with students, including football, basketball, and volleyball. Indoor activities such as chess, Catan, and table tennis are also available.
- Social Spaces
Spend your free time reading in the library, relaxing in the Old Kitchen, or enjoying coffee and conversations with fellow volunteers from around the world. Community bonfires and barbecues are regular social highlights.
- Disco Night
Celebrate with students during our fun Disco Night, held in the New Kitchen on the evening before school holidays.
2. Weekend & Local Experiences
- Morning Hike
Join a Saturday morning hike to a nearby hilltop, where you'll enjoy tea and breakfast with a student's grandparents while taking in beautiful countryside views.
- Local Dinner Experience
On Saturday evenings, volunteers may be invited to a local family's home to enjoy a traditional Dal Bhat dinner and, for those who wish, sample homemade Raksi, a traditional Nepali spirit.
- Explore the Local Area
Discover nearby forests, enjoy nature walks, or visit the town of Damauli, where you'll find a swimming pool, cinema, cafés, and local shops.
- Weekend Travel
Take advantage of convenient bus connections to explore some of Nepal's most popular destinations, including Bandipur, Gorkha, Chitwan, and Pokhara.
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