INTERNATIONAL VOLUNTEER
FAQs
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Hillsong Africa Foundation. Below you will find information to many questions you may have regarding your volunteering enquiry.
How much does it cost to volunteer with Hillsong Africa Foundation?
There is no cost to volunteer.
Do I need to be Christian to volunteer with HAF?
No. However, we are a faith-based organisation and the application form includes a pastoral reference.
What length of time can I volunteer for?
Volunteers can request the length of time and time of year to volunteer. Many of our programs are impacted by the school calendar. However, throughout the year there are other church related activities you can be part of if your program of interest is not running.
If you are planning to volunteer for a year, we recommend the Hillsong South Africa Internship Program that runs from February to December each year.
Do volunteers need to have any experience?
No. Volunteers need to be passionate about working with people, motivated to bring hope to people and have a flexible, “can do” attitude.
Is training provided for volunteers?
There is no specific training provided. You will be matched with HAF program/s that you have an interest and/or skills in.
What programs can I be part of?
You can be part of most programs and participate in more than one if you have an interest and/or skills in. In addition, volunteers are involved with different aspects of church life and events such as Sisterhood, Men’s Conference, Encounter, Kids Fest, Colour Conference & Christmas Spectacular.
What is a regular week like in HAF?
The week starts on Tuesday with a team meeting for staff, interns & key volunteers from all of our Hillsong South Africa locations. Tuesday is set aside for meetings and program preparation. From Wednesday to Friday depending on which programs you are part of, you will prepare activities, materials and work within the community. On Sundays, volunteers arrive early for a Volunteer Prayer Meeting and then serve in our Sunday teams such as VIP and Accelerate Centre. Saturdays and Mondays are free for you to relax!
Tuesday to Friday (9am to 5pm), Sunday (7:45 am to 6:30pm)
How will I travel to each program?
You are responsible to get to our Hillsong Church location in Century City and you will then be transported to & from the program in our vehicles.
Traveling in Cape Town is more convenient by car. Public transport and Uber are available. Transport options depend on how long you are planning to come for and where you stay.
Please refer to MyCity for public transport information.
Where would I stay?
It is your responsibility to organise your accommodation. We advise you to stay in Century City or the Milnerton area (close to our main church location), or the Atlantic Seaboard area close to the city where transport is accessible. Map
How much should I budget for monthly expenses?
Monthly expenses may vary depending on where you choose to stay, the transport you use, your grocery purchases and your social & tourist activities.
An approximate monthly budget includes:
R6000 – Accommodation
R1000 – Groceries
R650 – Bus
R120 – Mobile Data
R1500 – Social & Tourist activities
TOTAL
R9270 on average
You can check prices at our major supermarket chains below:
Will I be met at the airport?
We will endeavour to help you with this.
What's the first step?
Send us your information here.
Are there additional activities or courses that I can participate in while I volunteer?
Yes. There are a lot of courses you can do at Hillsong South Africa.
On Wednesday nights, there are many things for you to get involved in, including: Evening College where you can gain greater insight and revelation of God as you dive deeper into His word & Equip Courses where you can learn and grow in all aspects of life. Please check the start date of each course and whether there is a cost.
You can also join one of our Groups where you will connect with people, create relationships and grow to become all that God has designed you to be. Groups include: bible study & interests such as food, sport, professions, social causes or hobbies.
If you are creative you can also join Creative Team Night on a Thursday evening and attend master classes, coaching groups and practice in preparation for what may be required of them.
Once you are here our team will help you to get involved!
Can I volunteer in different Hillsong Church locations?
You will volunteer from our Century City location and visit different community areas during the week. You are welcome to get involved on Sundays in another church location, however this is dependent on transport. Visiting other church locations is a great opportunity to experience other cultures and languages.
You can see our locations here.
Do I need to be fluent in English?
It is highly recommended that you can speak English.
Do I need a visa?
If you are a National from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or the European Union you will get a temporary Visitors Permit – valid for 90 days when you present your passport. But if you stay longer than 90 days or come from a different country you can apply for a South African Volunteer Visa.
Ensure you are aware of your Visa requirements prior to your arrival. Please enquire through the South African embassy in your country or go to South African Home Affairs for more information regarding Visa requirements. Please note, we are not responsible for your travelling documentation.
What clothes do I need to bring?
Since you are going to be doing a lot of activities, bring comfortable, modest clothing including covered shoes. Cape Town is very windy throughout the year, so bring a warm jacket.
Should I bring a laptop or desktop computer?
HAF has a number of computers with internet access available for use during the week. However, we recommend you bring your own laptop.
Is it safe to be in Cape Town?
As a foreigner, you will experience Cape Town to be a safe city, as long as you follow the same rules that apply to most big cities (be discreet with your valuables, avoid empty streets, especially at night, etc).
HAF always aims to keep our volunteers safe whenever we go into a community or township. If you plan to visit somewhere, please let us know so we can advise you.
What's the currency in South Africa?
South Africa’s currency is the South African Rand.
Can I use my credit card in South Africa?
South Africa has one of the most advanced banking systems in the world, instant cash is available with major credit cards from hundreds of ATMs throughout the country.
Major credit cards are accepted throughout the country and shops. It’s always a good idea to inform your bank if you’re planning to use your credit card overseas.