Shire, Ethiopia: "I was given full responsibility as a team member in the field office, strengthening my capacity to work on refugee issues. Through working with UNHCR as a UN Volunteer, I realized that being a volunteer does not mean having less responsibility, or having people expect less from you. We are all expected to be professional humanitarian workers regardless of our status, and I believe that is very important." Read

Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: Cobblestone road construction is indeed a success history in Bahir Dar. All the environmental, economic and social achievements have proved its effectiveness in the fight against urban poverty. As a UNV volunteer, it makes me proud to be part of the leading actors that have brought this success and above all it has proved the strong determination of UNV volunteers to serve the community. Read

Awassa, Ethiopia: My blood is positive of development and charity activities. If I am living without this work, I am always thinking that is a big gap in my life. So volunteerism is a cornerstone for development work. Therefore being a volunteer is the right position for me to implement development and charity activities and bridge the gap in my life. Read

Arusha, Tanzania: Though refugees escaping conflict at home have it tough, there are still ways to minimize their impact on the environment. Shiferaw Mekonnen from UNHCR explains how voluntary efforts led to halving the amount of firewood needed by refugees in Tanzania, and how they planted millions of seedlings to help replace the forests. Read

Amhara, Ethiopia: To mark the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought on 17 June, UNV Executive Coordinator Flavia Pansieri has been in Ethiopia to observe volunteering for our planet at first hand. Read