Volunteer with Melanesian Women Today

At MWT, volunteers are at the heart of our mission to empower women and girls across Melanesia. Whether you are giving your time freely or contributing through a stipend, your skills and commitment help create lasting change.

Who Can Volunteer?

• Unpaid Volunteers: Offer your time and skills freely.

• Paid Volunteers: Receive a stipend or honorarium for specialized or longer-term support.

Why Volunteers Matter?

Volunteers support programs that:

• Strengthen women and girls as change agents in their communities.

• Build relationships and promote sustainable development through Indigenous approaches.

• Amplify women’s voices locally, regionally, and internationally.

Core Principles

All volunteers are expected to uphold MWT values:

• Agents of Change: Support women and girls as leaders.

• Solidarity: Respect and honor Melanesian self-determination.

• Reciprocity: Foster mutual respect and shared responsibility.

• Inclusiveness: Celebrate diversity and collaboration.

• Self-Determination: Support women and girls in defining their own futures.

Volunteer Expectations

• Professional Conduct: Respect all staff, volunteers, and community members.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Honor local traditions and Indigenous knowledge.

• Confidentiality: Protect private information about communities and participants.

• Integrity: Be honest and transparent in all work.

Responsibilities

• Commit to your agreed time and communicate if unavailable.

• Follow MWT policies, including health and safety guidelines.

• Engage in learning opportunities to better support programs.

• Contribute actively to MWT’s mission.

Volunteer Rights

• Work in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

• Receive clear guidance and training for your role.

• Access opportunities for skill development and growth.

Health & Safety

Volunteers are briefed on safety protocols, particularly for fieldwork or remote locations, and must follow all instructions and report concerns promptly.

Recognition

• Unpaid Volunteers: Acknowledged with thank-you notes, certificates, and public recognition.

• Paid Volunteers: Recognized fairly for their specialized contributions.

Resolving Issues

• Raise concerns with your supervisor or Volunteer Coordinator.

• If unresolved, follow MWT’s formal grievance procedure.

Ending Volunteer Engagement

• Volunteers may step down at any time with advance notice.

• MWT may end volunteer involvement if responsibilities or policies are not met.

Commitment to Inclusivity

MWT welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds and experiences. All volunteers are expected to respect our values of equity, unity, and mutual respect.

Join Us
Empowered women and girls are the foundation of a stronger, healthier, and more resilient Melanesia. Volunteers play a vital role in making this vision a reality.