What immunisations do I need to have before coming to Johannesburg?

You must take Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines at least 10 days before your date of travel along with other regular vaccines (tetanus, polio, etc.) that you would have probably taken at some stage in your youth.  If you are coming from a yellow fever infected area, then the yellow fever vaccine is also a requirement.  

Will language be a problem for me?

Although Afrikaans is the most widely spoken language here, people are also able to communicate in English.

Is Johannesburg as violent and dangerous as people say?

No it is not therefore you must not let this be an issue for you. You will be working and living with a safe and welcoming community and there will always be someone available to take you to where ever you may want to go.  

Do I need to bring any kind of protection against malaria or any other biting insects?

No. Mosquitoes and other biting insects are not a problem where you will be living and working. You will only need to protect yourself only if you decide to visit a safari park or places that are out of the city area.

Do I need any previous work experience?

If you do not have any previous work experience that's fine; this will be a great way to start your work life. Commitment and  willingness to make a contribution towards our community is what we are looking for. We are seeking agents of change who will help in the attainment of our objectives and help to drive our vision. 

If however you are skilled in any area which you believe can be an advantage to us in one way or another then that's great. 

How much money do I need to take with me?

This depends entirely on how much you want to budget for the duration of your stay. Check out the following currency converter web site to see how much your local currency is worth in South African Rand.  But just to be on the safe side you may want to bring a credit/debit card with you. You can use them to withdraw cash here as long as they have the visa/cirrus/maestro logo on them. And yes, you will get charged some kind of fee by your bank from back home so find out exactly how much this will be.

Where will I live during my time at Conquest?

Accommodation is provided free of charge for all our volunteers. You will be staying in a house that is occupied by other volunteers such as yourself. The house is located in the suburbs not too far from Conquest headquarters in Westbury.

Do I have to pay for any bills?

No. The only thing you pay for is your own expenses such as food and any other personal luxuries! 

At which CFL office will I be based?

You will be based at the CFL headquarters in Westbury but you may also be sent to work at any of the other offices. 

What is the size of the organisation and what are the staff members like?

At present CFL employs 30 people yet this number is set to grow as we expand our premises and take on new projects. CFL is a young and vibrant organisation as many of the  staff members are young people who are channeling their skills and energy towards making a difference in their society in order to create a brighter future for members of the community.  

The atmosphere at work is very much relaxed yet focused. Members of staff are the most warm, energetic and welcoming people you will find anywhere; they work very hard but also know how to have fun! 

How will I get to work?

Free transport is provided to take you to work and back home again and to other places such as the supermarket.

Will I get to interact with community members or will I spend all of my time in the office?

Conquest is a community based organisation therefore you will get to meet and interact with members of the community on a daily basis as various workshops and programmes take place throughout the week.

Also, as most of the staff live within the community you will get a chance to meet other people through them as they take you out and get you accustomed to life within the society.  

Is there a support system for a volunteer who has never been to South Africa or to the Westbury community before?

You will receive support in every way possible. We love welcoming new people into our midst and we appreciate the fact that they are coming from a completely different culture therefore we make sure that you are well informed about everything and there will always be someone around to get you accustomed to our way of life over here.

Where can I find out more about Johannesburg and South Africa?

Click here for more details about tourist information, weather conditions, attractions etc.