Become a volunteer or intern:
Make a difference
Volunteer or intern in Peru
Practical Information
An adventure in Peru naturally raises some questions! Below we have listed the most frequently asked questions for you as a quick introduction. Curious about the full picture? Then download our complete info brochure at the bottom of the page.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers and interns with a heart for children. Do you have experience in (special) education, physiotherapy, speech therapy, preschool education, photography, or marketing? That is a huge asset! But even without specific experience, you are more than welcome as a volunteer. Far more important than your background are your values: openness, respect for other cultures, a positive attitude, and the willingness to work as part of a team. A basic knowledge of Spanish is, however, necessary to communicate fluently with the children and the local team.
How long do you stay?
Peace and stability are very important to our children. That is why we ask our volunteers to commit for a minimum of 3 consecutive months. But to be fair: the longer you stay, the bigger your impact! It gives you the time to build a close bond of trust with the children.
Are you looking for that little extra challenge? Then we also have specific, responsible positions waiting for you, for example as a physiotherapist or speech therapist.
Where do you stay?
Volunteers stay at the project in our own volunteer house, just a 15-minute walk from the center of Curahuasi. You share a house with like-minded volunteers. We rent out private rooms and shared rooms. The kitchen, bathrooms, and a terrace are shared. The project itself takes place on the ground floor, while the rooms are located on the first floor.
What do we offer?
In addition to the beautiful views of the Andes Mountains, we offer you a life-changing experience. You will become part of the Oye LENA family, get the chance to improve your Spanish, and enrich yourself professionally in a unique context. But the biggest reward? Those are the hugs from the children and the fact that you are contributing to a better future for them. We offer a safe, supportive environment where you can discover the real Peruvian culture.
Can I do an internship here?
Certainly! We are a recommended internship placement for various (para)medical and pedagogical study programs. Are you doing an internship as part of your bachelor’s or master’s thesis? For several years now, we have been offering internship placements in collaboration with various colleges and universities such as Hogeschool Gent, Ghent University, Karel de Grote Hogeschool, Vives, Thomas More, and Odisee. Feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities for your specific study program!
Is there also time to discover Peru?
A word from our volunteers
I work as a volunteer speech therapist at Oye LENA. In a beautiful setting, you get the chance to help the children, further develop yourself, and immerse yourself in a new culture.
In the morning, I provide individual therapy to the children with a disability, and in the afternoon, I support several children with speech and language disorders while also teaching English lessons. Both personally and professionally, this is a super educational experience!
Hi!!
I am Flore Willems and I chose to do my third-year internship at Oye LENA. I study educational psychology (orthopedagogy) and my heart lies with youth with an intellectual disability and preschoolers, so this was the perfect place. In total, I did 500 hours of internship here — genuinely the best 500 hours of my year, maybe even of my life. 😉
My internship at Oye LENA was a huge learning experience for my future career in Belgium. I learned to be flexible here: adapting to the situation, responding to unexpected moments, and always being able to choose what you want to do with your youth. I was given the freedom to decide how I wanted to guide my clients with a disability. In addition, I provided the preschoolers with an educational and creatively engaging afternoon program.
Furthermore, you work with the best colleagues here. You live together, which makes it truly feel like a family. You also live together in Curahuasi, a beautiful place in Peru with breathtaking nature, mountain views, and even hummingbirds in your garden.
I absolutely recommend Oye LENA as an internship placement. I would have stayed here longer without a doubt if I could!
Hugs!
Prepare yourself with our info brochure
Volunteer in Belgium
Events
Help out during our quizzes, parties, or dinner evenings. We are always looking for helping hands with the setup, behind the bar, or at the cash register.
School Activities
Join us at schools to guide workshops and immersion sessions. You do not need to be a teacher to teach the students something about our project!
Markets & Booths
Join us in manning an info booth at local (Christmas) markets. You help sell our products and introduce Oye LENA to the general public.
Organize an activity
Do you have a great idea yourself? Organize a sponsored run, a waffle bake, or donate your birthday. We are happy to help you get started with materials and tips!
No fixed obligations, but a lot of satisfaction! At Oye LENA, you decide when and how often you pitch in. We are incredibly grateful for every helping hand. So whether you are looking for a structural commitment or just want to soak up the atmosphere for one evening: we welcome you with open arms.