More than 160 people attend volunteering event

People learnt more about the volunteering opportunities available through Jersey Overseas Aid

More than 160 people attended an event to learn more about international volunteering opportunities.

Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) held the event at the Royal Yacht Hotel on Wednesday.

It plans to send teams of 12 to 14 islanders to Nepal, Malawi and Zambia next year to support local communities in these countries with projects including school building, construction work to strengthen infrastructure and building homes.

Deputy Carolyn Labey, Minister for International Development and Chair of JOA, said she was delighted the event was sold out and said "the enthusiasm we've seen shows that our volunteering programme is more popular than ever".

Deputy Carolyn Labey said she was proud of the island's commitment to helping others

She added: "For over 50 years, Jersey volunteers have brought skills and compassion to communities worldwide, and I'm proud that this commitment remains so strong."

People can now apply to be part of the volunteering projects for 2026.

Habitat for Humanity is a global non-profit housing organisation that partners with JOA on international projects.

Sidney Montague, from the group, worked with the Jersey team last year to support communities in Malawi.

She said it was "an unforgettable experience" and "none of us were professional builders, but with the support of local experts we quickly found our place on site".

"It was humbling, uplifting, and a powerful reminder of how volunteering can change lives – both theirs and ours," Ms Montague added.