Find where you BELONG with a conservation experience!
When was the last time you felt like you belonged in your career?
When you felt welcomed, accepted and valued for just who you are? When you experienced a deep connection with a team, organisation, community or place?
Belonging is a fundamental human need, but sometimes it can be missing in our careers. We might find ourselves in environments where we feel stifled, disconnected or unmotivated, where we feel we can’t be our true selves.
We might even stop expressing elements of ourselves; hide our identity, background or culture; or put on an act in order to meet expectations or ‘fit in’.
“True belonging never asks us to change who we are. True belonging requires us to be who we are.” – Brené Brown
But when we find true belonging – that feeling of security and support, with a sense of acceptance, inclusion and identity – it holds tremendous power.
When we belong, it unlocks more of our authenticity, connection and enthusiasm. We share our ideas, solve problems and collaborate. We contribute to something much bigger than ourselves.
If you’ve been feeling alone or disconnected, or you’ve noticed that you’ve been trying to ‘fit in’ rather than belong, it might be time to expand your person and professional horizons.
Stepping out of your usual environment and joining a real-world experience in nature can help you (re)connect with yourself, discover where you belong in conservation and find your ‘tribe’ for support.
“When you know and respect your Inner Nature, you know where you belong.” – Benjamin Hoff
If you’re ready to belong to something bigger than yourself, where you can become your best, here are four conservation experiences we think you’ll love.
Conservation Experiences: Top opportunities to find where you belong
Wildlife Expedition in Costa Rica
Join us in the heart of the wild Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve on the beautiful Caribbean coast. Have the adventure of a lifetime with fellow nature-lovers from around the world. You’ll live in the jungle, tour the local area and work to monitor species like ocelots, mantled howler monkeys and the keel-billed toucan.
Belong to something bigger:
- Contribute to ongoing environmental projects that address critical challenges aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- Join local conservation partners and qualified professionals to ensure your efforts are highly ethical, meaningful and sustainable.
- Share epic experiences with like-minded, passionate changemakers from all over the globe.
Mexico Marine Conservation Short Term Internship
Start your career in ocean conservation by earning your PADI Coral Reef Restoration Diver Distinctive Speciality, participating in coral reef health monitoring, conducting coral restoration activities and running other marine conservation initiatives like environmental awareness programs.
Belong to something bigger:
- Support a team of scientists and academics with ongoing, cutting-edge research that gets published and makes an impact.
- Work on a real project for a conservation partner to address critical environmental issues in the area.
- Participate in practical training sessions to develop your leadership skills and receive guidance from experienced mentors.
Wildlife Research Expedition in South Africa
Join an international team conducting vital wildlife and conservation research on a private game reserve in the South Africa bushveld – home to lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino and cheetah. You’ll live and work alongside an international research team, contributing to critical wildlife conservation initiatives.
Belong to something bigger:
- Work with some of the world’s most beautiful and vulnerable wildlife.
- Contribute to ongoing environmental projects that address critical challenges aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
- Work in partnership with locally-led conservation organisations to ensure your efforts are highly ethical, meaningful and sustainable.
- Disconnect digitally and reconnect with nature, yourself and your purpose.
Volunteering in Ecuador – Species Conservation on the Galapagos Islands
Experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure awaiting you on the pristine Galapagos Islands! Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of these islands, working side by side with park rangers, conservationists and volunteers to promote species protection measures on Isabela Island.
Belong to something bigger:
- Join collaborative efforts alongside the dedicated Galapagos National Park team to safeguard the rich biodiversity of this extraordinary region.
- Assist park rangers in the essential care of adult tortoises and hatchlings, ensuring their safe growth and daily care.
- Engage with visitors, share information on conservation efforts and learn about the vital role that they play in this delicate ecosystem.
Still looking for a right fit? If you’re curious about other experiences and locations, why not explore all our Conservation Experiences.