from 613€

Outstanding 5rating (11)

Community Multi Media Centre

location
4 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 5  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Below average response rate

Highlights

  • A creative dynamic space with three rooms full of media equipment & information which can benefit the community; including a recording room & a larger room stocked with a projector, radio computers.
  • It is widely known that some of our past volunteers taught the first ever Malawian to mix music right here at Butterfly Space!
  • A new database of information on laptops and a new Raspberry Pi are fully loaded of educational videos and programmes waiting to be used and utilised by the community
  • Volunteers will assist with the training of the IT and Media room staff, helping them to maintain equipment and advertise the services we offer to the community.
  • Volunteers are encouraged to come with their own creative ideas to implement within the centre, & are free to get involved in the areas that suit their skills and interests best & mostly, have fun!

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

Bring to life our Multimedia Centre to help our community access our recording studio, library and IT resources and run workshops and lessons in areas in your expertise!

Butterfly Multi Media Centre & Recording Studio:

Since it opened in April 2012, this creative dynamic space holds two rooms full of media equipment and information which can benefit the community; including a recording room and a larger room stocked with a projector, radio and computers.

The recording ...

About the program

Butterfly Multi Media Centre & Recording Studio:

Since it opened in April 2012, this creative dynamic space holds two rooms full of media equipment and information which can benefit the community; including a recording room and a larger room stocked with a projector, radio and computers.

The recording room is full of the latest equipment for the community to record original music along with being able to practise mixing music as well. It is always truly inspiring to hear new sounds emerging from the recording room as it is often full with many musicians. We have also previously taught some local children to become DJ´s by using software on the computers which we would like to continue in the future.  

The computers in the bigger room have been set up as work stations where people can learn music, film and photography editing. We have basic equipment for people to use and worksheets for people to work from, although hands-on teaching from volunteers and people who are experienced are the best way to use what we have to offer. We have lots of tools for the community to use such as a video camera and a voice recorder which are perfect for anyone interested in making films or wanting to get into journalism. We offer Photoshop classes, and can set up courses in photography to show the community how to use a camera.  A recent volunteer Mike, from A Million Smiles project worked with some kids and is now encouraging them to use his project as a platform for their photography.

Lots of work has been done recently to try to set up Nkhata News, a local and tourist newspaper that should also provide an opportunity for budding journalists to practice their skills.  A new blog site to help people practice their writing skills.

There is also a projector positioned opposite a perfect wall to show weekly educational films and inspiring TED talks. Recently we had a volunteer from the UK who brought over a lot of travel documentaries including the box set from the famous English explorer Bruce Parry, and one about Mount Everest and we have local films provided by Purple Field Productions that were filmed locally.  Such sessions help keep the community on their toes and we always have a big turn-out for these classes as people are eager to learn about different places around the world. This projector comes in very handy and is also a great tool to use for homework clubs.


Volunteers for the media room could:

  • Provide lessons on editing; music, photos and video, to the community here in Nkhata Bay.

  • Set up homework clubs using the computers and projectors and teaching tools.

  • Teach people how to become a DJ, using software on the computer.

  • Show thought provoking films and podcasts and get discussion groups going. 

  • Make cultural recordings with different members of the community as a way of recording local stories and traditions. There is a small camera, voice recorder and other means in which local community member’s stories and knowledge  could be recorded.

  • Help us set up web-sites that will link our groups to the wider world, for

           commerce but also for information.

  • Teach journalism skills, both for radio and written formats.

  • Service and maintanence of equiptment.

  • Assist in the first time production of Nkhata News, the first locally produced 

newspaper.


Eleven years on from its opening, the Information Centre is still going strong and we have recently gained a new set of desk-top computers from Suma Wholefoods which hopefully will be easier to maintain.  A new database of information on laptops provided by Chris and a fully loaded Raspberry Pi of educational videos ensures that the information remains relevant.  The centre manager provides lessons on how to use the computer for research purposes along with lessons in Microsoft Office, Excel and other basic software, which are held most days with children from the nearby schools.  We always really appreciate if any volunteers want to lend a hand with teaching in this area.

There is also a vast amount of Information in the Centre including a Library full of books  for our guests to read including: life-skills, health, language, history, home economics, travel, novels and Interfaith AIDs Association newsletters. There is also a notice board of free handouts for the community to take home with them on subjects including: agriculture, health and business. Without a doubt the Information & Internet Centre is clearly trying to educate the community to provide awareness for many to learn the skills which will benefit them well into the future.

 It further aims to develop its role within the wider community to become a useful networking centre for the area , developing a contacts database and looking to link up with like minded organisations.  For volunteers the centre can provide useful contacts and information for their time here and it is requested that any new contacts or work done while here is left here so that it can be useful for the future. .


People interested in helping out in the IT and Media centre could help with:

  • Computer lessons for local schoolchildren and community groups. You would be expected to arrange and direct lessons, informing and engaging potential students to get involved by making posters, visiting local schools and word of mouth with the help of Soloman, our media centre manager. We have Word, Excel and PowerPoint lesson sheets and could always do with more lesson plans being recorded for future volunteers and /or step by step guides for locals to follow independently. 

  • Gathering information for the centre, utilizing and promoting the use of our Raspberry Pi technology, sourcing more up to date magazines, books and journals.

  • Sourcing, introducing and implementing new technologies that can be used in the IT centre to benefit the community. 

  • Community visits to local groups and organisations can help advertise the facilities available in the centre and find out more about what information is relevant to people.

  • Uploading books onto the library database, collecting and storing local contacts for networking.

  • Researching and uploading contacts into our community database as a networking tool for our projects and the community in general.

  • Maintanence and upkeep of electronic equiptment

  • Training for staff that work in the IT and Media centre.



Typical day

The media and IT centre is open daily from 8am until 5pm and staffed by Soloman, who lives locally. You are expected to manage your own time, working alongside Soloman to help run workshops and engage with the community to promote the services we offer. 

Typical day

The media and IT centre is open daily from 8am until 5pm and staffed by Soloman, who lives locally. You are expected to manage your own time, working alongside Soloman to help run workshops and engage with the community to promote the services we offer. 


Free-time activities

Butterfly Space Lodge is beautifully situated under a canopy of mango trees, surrounded by lush permaculture gardens with a restaurant and bar. Butterfly Space is a 15 minute walk from the bustling ferry port and market town, which has a vibrant market, great night life handcrafted souvenir shops, ...

Free-time activities

Butterfly Space Lodge is beautifully situated under a canopy of mango trees, surrounded by lush permaculture gardens with a restaurant and bar. Butterfly Space is a 15 minute walk from the bustling ferry port and market town, which has a vibrant market, great night life handcrafted souvenir shops, restaurants and a warm and friendly feel! 

 

Across the bay is Aqua Africa who offer scuba diving and kayaking, Monkey Business  (on site at Butterfly) is a small Malawian business that offers kayaking and canoe trips, mountain biking and treks. The lodge has a lively bar and pool table, and hammocks overlooking the beautiful crystal clear Lake Malawi. Snorkels are available free of charge at reception for snorkelling. There are lots of beautiful coves and beaches to explore along the lake, and pretty villages that welcome warmly passers by. 



Requirements

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 (intermediate level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

Photography, Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Raspberry Pi, Media lessons, IT Maintenance, Promotion skills would be useful for this role.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Butterfly Space Malawi

• Dormitory Accommodation*

• Two meals in the restaurant included FOR THE FIRST MONTH ONLY

• Orientation on projects and Nkhata Bay

*If people wish to stay in an individual chalet rather than the dormitory then there are upgrade options available.

Discounts can be discussed and provided for volunteers wishing to volunteer for longer than their initial month. The first month volunteer package is a necessary cost to cover the running costs of the non-profit Butterfly Space lodge and the projects. 


Accommodation

You will be placed in a 6 bed dorm, which overlook the lake. Dorm beds have mosquito nets, lockers, and are situated close to our eco friendly toilets and hot outdoor shower which overlooks lake Malawi. 

Upgrades to private chalets, and en-suite chalets are available upon request.

Food & Beverages

2 meals a day in the lodge restaurant for the 1st month only.

Mkana cafe, situated at Butterflty lodge is outsourced to create more opportunities for local entrepreneurs in our community. 

The meals are freshly prepared and there are many delicious menu options of local and international dishes, which cater for all dietary requirements.

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Airport Pickup at Mzuzu

An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Mzuzu (ZZU) in Mzuzu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Malawi. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Malawi provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Malawi you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Malawi. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

this is an ongoing project that would benefit from a minimum of 4 weeks here at Butterfly Space.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

4 weeks (min. stay) 613€
6 weeks 752€
8 weeks 892€
10 weeks 1,032€
12 weeks (max. stay) 1,172€
Average fees 125€/week

Program fees

125€ per week 4 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

4 - 12 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Butterfly Space Malawi during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

Butterfly Space Malawi

Outstanding 5 rating (11 reviews)

Non-profit - founded in 2011

Verified by Volunteer World

  Below average response rate

Coordinated by

Holly

About the project

Diverse socially responsible grassroot community projects; empower communities & make real impact. Our non-profit eco-lodge offers a unique & engaging experience to all.

Meet your organization

Butterfly Space passionately works directly with communities, to support diverse grassroot projects and initiatives both on and off site. With a focus on sustainable development, environment, and education, our goal is to empower and motivate communities to drive significant positive changes and make a long lasting impact. We are a UK registered charity and our projects target 15 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
You can see all of our ongoing projects on our website; butterflyspacemalawi.com.

Some of our projects include: a well established international standard primary and nursery school, a vocational training centre, community based libraries, IT, resource and media center, Permaculture after school clubs (in 22 schools), community outreach programs to deliver workshops based on sustainable and regenerative agriculture, tree planting projects, and empower and support community groups including disabled people, and women's groups.

Butterfly Space has hosted volunteers since 2011. We provide and encourage ethical volunteering and internships to respectfully work alongside and educate our community. There is an emphasis on exchanging knowledge and experience as projects are diverse and self-sustaining where possible and are staffed by local people who work alongside the volunteers.
“Our vision is to develop and support beneficial sustainable projects which empower those who benefit from them to govern, encourage and develop them, encouraging self advocacy, self development and motivation”

Volunteers can be matched with the projects they feel they are most passionate about and are encouraged to come with new ideas and make their mark. Volunteers will receive guidance and support both before they arrive and during their stay about the organisation, projects, travel advice, health and safety, and are welcomed to discuss, develop and implement their new ideas, fundraise and provide ongoing support. 

We run a non-profit eco-lodge, which also provides a hub for our community projects, while financially supporting them. Butterfly Lodge is open to travelers and volunteers, and offers amenities to make sure volunteers are comfortable during their stay and also...have fun! 
Accommodation rates start from >$10 per night plus food.

We do not charge a fee for volunteering. We try to encourage our projects to be community led and financially self sustaining. That said, fundraising before hand, and donations are always hugely appreciated and means more support to all projects, so we do encourage this!

We aim to provide a genuine, unique and affordable experience for people wanting to join our community and have an experience that supports our projects, while enjoying the beautiful location on the lake and the warm Malawian culture. 

All of our projects are located around the Nkhata Bay district and Butterfly Space lodge is used as a hub to plan, discuss and debrief after a days volunteering, as well as to relax, socialize with locals, travelers and other volunteers while enjoying the beautiful lake's crystal clear waters and the surrounding lush permaculture gardens. Nkhata Bay is a 15 minute walk, and a bustling ferry port and market town, rich in culture and beautifully nestled into a beautiful bay on the lake shore. It is lively both during the day and in the evening, and is a very welcoming and safe hub for volunteers to explore.

11 reviews · rating5

Jamie Ross rating5

2017 at Community Multi Media Centre

I volunteered at Butterfly Space in the Media Room. The experience was exactly what I wanted from a volunteering experience. I was able to actually make a difference as I was able to share some of my skills with the local community such as IT skills and media editing etc. I was also able to help ...
Judith Weymont rating5

2020 at E.A.R.T.H Workshops

Volunteering through Butterfly Lodge in Malawi has been a real treat,the people are great, the climate wonderful, the food good and the water safe to drink. Working with local people on the edge of Lake Malawi is a bit like working in paradise and its fun. I have spend time helping to train small ...
Imogen Steuart-Feilding rating5

2020 at Stepping Stones Primary, & Nursery School

Stepping Stones is a project run by Butterfly Space, in Nkhata Bay. There are almost 220 students in the school, coming from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. The school was set up a few years ago and it is now very established in the local area. I was helping to run the school in my ...
I volunteered at Butterfly Space, Nkhata Bay Malawi for a few months in December 2019 - March 2020. I was really attracted to the community focus and community feel of Butterfly Space and the lakeside location was an absolute bonus! Josie and AJ have worked tirelessly over the years to focus on ...
Myself and my friend Erin came over to butterfly space as newly qualified physios, we divided our time between a few different projects including supreme (a social enterprise providing reusable sanitary products for school girls) and the local nursery school. Primarily we spent most of our visit ...
I visited Malawi in May 2019. I meet my friend in Nkhata Bay and we stayed in Butterfly Space. We had previously heard of this place through Instagram and really like everything we read about it. I volunteered in one of the nursery’s and I really enjoyed it. I can’t wait to be back next year! ...

Location

Africa > Eastern Africa > Malawi > Nkhata Bay

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