"As a team of five students studying International Relations at Boston University, we wanted to have a meaningful impact while learning about grassroots development in Africa. Ashoka welcomed us into a partnership with their Nigeria field office. We helped plan a resource center for social entrepreneurs, provided advice on an energy audit, and worked directly with an aspiring Ashoka Fellow on his business plan. We forged meaningful relationships and are happy that an organization like Ashoka is successfully supporting grassroots development."
— Michael Mangano, Michael Silvestrini, Paul McManus, advisor (pictured), Emily Farwell, Michael Mann, Dami Ogunmola
How to Volunteer
Having information on your interests, background and experience is essential to ensuring that you and the person you are helping get the most out of your collaboration.
We ask that you fill in the Ashoka Volunteer Form, attach a resume if possible and send it directly to the contact listed on any posted opportunity to which you would like to respond. Write "Volunteer" in the subject line and copy .
If you would like to offer your time and talents in a more general way, please send the Volunteer Form and your CV to and we will circulate your information confidentially to see if there are any unposted opportunities that are a good match for your skills and interests.
When traveling abroad to volunteer, you should be prepared to cover both travel and living expenses, and feel comfortable in sometimes rustic and unfamiliar environments. We recommend that you clarify all expectations and arrangements before making your commitment by using the Volunteer Checklist.
Please note that not all Ashoka Fellows are able to host volunteers and that Ashoka is not a volunteer placement agency. We cannot arrange or oversee your travel. That said, we are very happy to make the connections that will make the best use of your interests and skills.
We look forward to hearing from you and welcoming you to our community of Changemakers!