My name is Daniel John. In 2013 I interned with AVC as an assistant to the Program Officer and in 2014 I joined AVC as a Program Officer. I wanted to work with AVC because I was attracted to AVC’s vision of working directly with the community and local grassroots NGOs.

I like working with Volunteers because they are youth like myself. I am able to understand their expectations after finishing their studies and I can see the challenges they face in the field and help them solve them. I like to work with the Volunteers so that they can share and learn from one another. I also help them understand the meaning of volunteerism and how it can benefit them.

At a site visit to Salama Center in Moshi
From left: AVC Founding Director Jafari Msaki, AVC Volunteer Ester Kimath, and AVC Program Officer Daniel John

Working with AVC has helped me gain knowledge on how to work closely and effectively with Volunteers and the community.

Kofi Annan said, “At the heart of volunteerism are the ideals of service and solidarity and the belief that we can make the world better.” When we Volunteer, we work from the heart to help others without expecting to receive anything back from those we help. If you really know the meaning of volunteerism, you will work with pride because you know you are getting work experience, creating a professional network with people from different communities, and helping society through your service.

For my country, I’m very proud to work with other graduates who are using their talents and knowledge to help the community. I’m so proud to work in my country and help my fellow citizens use the available resources for their own development. I enjoy helping my community find and recognize the opportunities around them and take advantage of those opportunities.