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Excellent 4.85rating (33)

Empower Village Women Through Health & Wellness

location
4 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Lead fun yoga, Zumba, dance, and fitness sessions for village women.
  • Encourage women to build healthy exercise habits and confidence.
  • Introduce new games and activities that make exercise enjoyable.

Highlights

  • Lead fun yoga, Zumba, dance, and fitness sessions for village women.
  • Encourage women to build healthy exercise habits and confidence.
  • Introduce new games and activities that make exercise enjoyable.
  • Connect with local women and become part of our village community.
  • Share your fitness skills while learning about Sri Lankan culture.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help village women stay active and healthy through yoga, Zumba, fitness, dance, games and enjoyable exercise activities.

    Empower Village Women Through Fitness & Wellness

    Join Akuratatha in rural southern Sri Lanka and help create regular opportunities for village women to become more active, healthy, confident, and connected through enjoyable physical activities.

    Many women in our local community have limited ...

    About the program

    Empower Village Women Through Fitness & Wellness

    Join Akuratatha in rural southern Sri Lanka and help create regular opportunities for village women to become more active, healthy, confident, and connected through enjoyable physical activities.

    Many women in our local community have limited opportunities to participate in regular exercise. Their daily lives are often focused on family, household responsibilities, work, and caring for others, leaving little time for their own health and wellbeing. This project was created to give women a friendly and welcoming space where they can exercise, have fun, meet other women, and take time for themselves.

    As a volunteer, you can use your own interests, experience, and skills to introduce activities that are suitable and enjoyable for the women. Yoga and Zumba are two activities we are particularly interested in developing, but the project is not limited to them. You may also introduce dance, stretching, aerobics, light fitness, recreational games, walking activities, relaxation exercises, or other forms of safe physical activity.

    The most important thing is not to provide professional-level training, but to encourage women to participate and enjoy being active. Some participants may already be familiar with exercise, while others may be completely new to it. Volunteers should therefore be patient, encouraging, and willing to adapt activities to different ages and fitness levels.

    You may help organize regular group sessions and gradually develop activities according to the interests of the women. We encourage volunteers to bring their own ideas and creativity. If you have experience in yoga, Zumba, sports, dance, fitness, physical education, or another form of exercise, you can use your skills to create activities that are both useful and enjoyable.

    This project is also about friendship and community. The sessions provide an opportunity for women to meet one another, socialize, laugh, and build confidence while taking care of their physical wellbeing. You will have the chance to develop genuine relationships with local women and learn about their everyday lives and experiences.

    A previous international volunteer introduced yoga sessions for village women, and the activity was warmly received by the community. We would now like to continue developing this opportunity and welcome volunteers who can bring new energy, ideas, and activities to the project.

    Volunteering with us is also a cultural exchange. While you share your skills and encourage the women to become more active, you will experience Sri Lankan village life, learn about local culture and traditions, and become part of the Akuratatha community.

    You do not need to be a professional instructor for every activity, but relevant experience or qualifications in yoga, Zumba, fitness, sports, dance, or physical activity are highly appreciated. What matters most is your enthusiasm, responsibility, patience, and genuine interest in supporting local women.

    Come and share your energy, skills, and ideas with our community while helping village women enjoy a more active and healthy lifestyle.


    Typical day

    A Typical Day

    Every day at Akuratatha is a little different, and we encourage volunteers to bring their own ideas and creativity. The schedule for this project is flexible because the village women have their own family, household, and work responsibilities.

    A typical day may begin with planning and ...

    Typical day

    A Typical Day

    Every day at Akuratatha is a little different, and we encourage volunteers to bring their own ideas and creativity. The schedule for this project is flexible because the village women have their own family, household, and work responsibilities.

    A typical day may begin with planning and preparing the activities with the Akuratatha team. Depending on your skills and interests, you may prepare a yoga, Zumba, fitness, dance, stretching, or recreational exercise session.

    Morning

    Mornings are generally a good time for volunteers to relax, have breakfast, prepare for the day, or take part in other Akuratatha activities if they are interested.

    You may also use this time to plan your exercise sessions, prepare music for Zumba or dance, or discuss ideas with our team.

    Exercise & Wellness Sessions

    The main part of your volunteering will be spending time with the village women and encouraging them to become more physically active.

    Depending on the day and the participants, you may lead activities such as:

    • Yoga and stretching
    • Zumba and dance
    • Light fitness and aerobics
    • Simple movement and exercise routines
    • Recreational games
    • Walking or outdoor activities
    • Relaxation and breathing exercises

    You should adapt the activities to the participants. Some women may already be comfortable exercising, while others may be beginners. The aim is to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable.

    The sessions should be enjoyable rather than competitive. You can use music, simple games, group activities, and your own creative ideas to make exercise something the women look forward to.

    Time With the Community

    After the activity, you may have time to talk and spend time with the women. This informal interaction is an important part of the experience.

    You can learn about their daily lives, families, traditions, and experiences, while they can learn about you, your country, and your culture.

    Afternoon & Free Time

    After your main volunteering activities, you will normally have free time to rest and enjoy your stay.

    You can relax at home, read, explore the local area, visit nearby places, or simply spend time with the Akuratatha family.

    If you have other skills or interests, you may also have opportunities to support other Akuratatha activities, depending on the needs of the community and your own interests.

    Evening

    Evenings are generally relaxed. You can enjoy a home-cooked Sri Lankan meal, spend time with the family and other volunteers, or discuss the day's activities.

    Sometimes there may be opportunities to join community activities or spend time with local people.

    Flexibility

    The exact schedule is not fixed. Village life does not always follow a strict timetable, and the women's availability may change from day to day.

    We therefore ask volunteers to be flexible and understanding. Together with the Akuratatha team, you can decide which activities are most suitable for the women during your stay.

    The most important part of your day is not the number of activities you complete. It is the positive atmosphere you create and the encouragement you give to the women.

    You may arrive with a plan to teach yoga or Zumba, but we encourage you to listen to the community and develop activities together with the women.

    Come ready to share your energy, learn from the community, and enjoy being active together.


    Free-time activities

    Volunteering with Akuratatha gives you the opportunity to experience both meaningful community work and the beautiful southern coast of Sri Lanka.

    During your free time, you can explore some of the area's beautiful beaches and coastal towns. Weligama, Mirissa, Ahangama and Matara are all wonderful ...

    Free-time activities

    Volunteering with Akuratatha gives you the opportunity to experience both meaningful community work and the beautiful southern coast of Sri Lanka.

    During your free time, you can explore some of the area's beautiful beaches and coastal towns. Weligama, Mirissa, Ahangama and Matara are all wonderful places to visit, and the historic city of Galle is also within easy reach.

    If you enjoy the ocean, there are many activities you can experience, including swimming, surfing, snorkelling and diving. Weligama is particularly popular for surfing, while Mirissa is well known for its beautiful beach and relaxed atmosphere.

    You can also explore Sri Lankan nature and wildlife. For volunteers interested in adventure, Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park offer opportunities to experience Sri Lanka's amazing wildlife on a safari, where you may see elephants, deer, crocodiles and many different species of birds.

    You can spend your free days relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea, trying surfing for the first time, exploring local towns, enjoying Sri Lankan food, visiting cultural places, or taking a safari into the country's beautiful natural areas.

    We are happy to share our local knowledge and help you plan your free time. You can choose between relaxing and enjoying the peaceful village environment or exploring the beaches, nature, wildlife and culture of southern Sri Lanka.

    Your time with Akuratatha is not only about volunteering. It is also an opportunity to experience Sri Lankan village life, make new friends, discover our culture, enjoy the ocean and create unforgettable memories.


    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.

    Required Documents

    cv

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Volunteers with skills or experience in yoga, Zumba, dance, fitness, sports, physical education, aerobics, stretching, recreation, or group exercise are especially welcome. Experience working with women or community groups is an advantage. Creative, enthusiastic volunteers who can introduce fun activities and encourage participation are also welcome.

    Time Commitment

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

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The program fees cover accommodation, three daily meals, utilities (electricity and water), and transportation(airport pick up and drop . 

    We aim to make your volunteering experience comfortable, impactful, and affordable. Your contribution helps us sustain the project and provide for the children under our care.

    This includes:

    • 🏠 Accommodation (clean, safe, and comfortable rooms)

    • 🍽️ Three daily meals (home-cooked Sri Lankan food, mostly organic)

    • 📶 Free Wi-Fi and access to all essential amenities

    • 🚐 Transportation for project-related activities

    • 📚 Materials and resources used during teaching and workshops

    • 💧 Drinking water, electricity, cleaning services, and other utilities

    Airport Pickup at Bandaranaike International Airport

    To make your arrival smooth and stress-free, we offer airport pickup from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo.

    Here’s how it works:

    • One of our friendly team members will be waiting for you at the airport arrival area with a sign that reads “Akuratatha Volunteer”.

    • We’ll help you with your luggage and bring you directly to the volunteer home ( feelhome) in Akuressa.

    • The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and it’s a great opportunity to see the Sri Lankan countryside along the way.

    Airport pickup is included in your program fee. Please make sure to send us your flight details (arrival time, airline, and flight number) at least one week before your arrival so we can make the necessary arrangements.

    We’re excited to welcome you and ensure you start your volunteering journey with comfort and ease!

    Accommodation

    🏡 Your Home Away from Home – Akuratatha Volunteer House

    Volunteers are warmly welcomed into our peaceful and comfortable Akuratatha Volunteer Home, located in a friendly rural village surrounded by coconut trees, rice fields, and nature. The homestay is just a short walk from the classes and preschool, allowing you to be fully immersed in the community.

    We provide private bedrooms so you have your own space to rest and recharge after a meaningful day with the children. You’ll experience the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and community living.

    🛎️ What’s Included:

    • 🛏️ Private bedroom with fan,  AC, mosquito net, clean bedding, and basic furniture

    • 🚿 Western-style shared bathrooms, cleaned regularly

    • 🍽️ Three nutritious home-cooked meals daily, with vegetarian options available

    • 📶 Free Wi-Fi throughout the home

    • 🧺 Laundry space and help with basic cleaning if needed

    • 🌿 Tranquil garden for reading, yoga, journaling, or socializing

    • 💧 Safe drinking water and all essential utilities (electricity, gas, maintenance)

    • 🔐 Personal lockable drawers or lockers for storing valuables safely

    🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Volunteer Community:

    At any given time, we usually host between 2 to 6 volunteers. This creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere where you’ll easily build bonds, share meals and stories, and explore Sri Lanka together on weekends.

    We do our best to match volunteers with similar interests and schedules to ensure a positive group dynamic.

    Whether you're enjoying a quiet tea in the garden, helping prepare a local dish in the kitchen, or relaxing after a day of meaningful work, our home becomes your home—a place of belonging, safety, and shared purpose.

    Food & Beverages

    You will be served three meals per day, cooked by your hosts. Meals are mainly based on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, which includes rice, meat curries, fish curries, and vegetable curries on the daily menu. Vegetarian or vegan dishes can be prepared upon request. The kitchen is also available for your use anytime if you prefer to prepare your own meals.

    If you fancy Western food, there are a variety of restaurants offering such meals in coastal areas like Weligama, Mirissa, Matara, and Galle. These locations are no more than 30 to 40 minutes away by tuk-tuk, car, or public transport from where you’ll be staying.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. We assist you to find cheap flights to Sri Lanka. 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 Sri Lanka provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Volunteers are welcome to join the Empower Village Women Through Fitness & Wellness project throughout the year. We do not have one fixed intake period, so you can discuss your preferred dates with us when applying.

    We recommend that volunteers stay for at least 4 weeks so there is enough time to become familiar with the community, build relationships with the women, and establish regular exercise activities. Longer stays are also very welcome.

    Arrival in Sri Lanka

    Once your placement is confirmed, please share your flight details with us, including your arrival date, flight number, and expected arrival time.

    We will coordinate your arrival and help you reach Akuratatha safely. Your arrival arrangements will be discussed with you before you travel.

    Arrival Days

    There is no single fixed arrival day. We can generally welcome volunteers according to their travel plans, subject to availability.

    If possible, we recommend arriving during the daytime so that you can settle in comfortably, meet the Akuratatha family, and receive an introduction to the local area and your volunteer activities.

    Your First Days

    On arrival, we will give you time to rest and settle in. We will introduce you to the Akuratatha team and explain the project, the local community, and the activities you may be involved in.

    We will also discuss your skills and interests with you and talk about the types of exercise activities you would like to introduce to the village women.

    Because this is a community-based project, the exact schedule of activities may be arranged after your arrival according to the availability and needs of the women.

    Volunteers are welcome throughout the year, and we look forward to welcoming you to Akuratatha whenever your travel plans bring you to Sri Lanka.

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

    Program Fees

    $230 per week 4 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 50 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.85
    33 reviews

    Location

    Asia > Southern Asia > Sri Lanka > Akuressa

    Meet your project coordinator

    sahan
    33
    reviews
    4.85
    Excellent
    2004
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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