Hilary Duff, an EQWIP HUBs volunteer alumni, did just that when she went abroad in 2015 to volunteer as a Communications Advisor in Tanzania. Wanting to expand her knowledge and experience working with international teams, EQWIP HUBs offered Hilary a way to work directly with local youth and partners. As one of the first volunteers sent to Tanzania, Hilary’s role was expanded to include helping design and establish the EQWIP HUBs space in Mwanza. She shared her thoughts on this one-of-a-kind opportunity.

“Before volunteering with EQWIP HUBs Tanzania, I had already worked extensively with teams in East Africa — though always over Skype and email. EQWIP HUBs offered the opportunity to interact and learn from young Tanzanian innovators face-to-face. This gave me many valuable insights into the entrepreneurship scene in the country. As for the HUB design — that’s what working for a start-up organization is all about! Doing what needs to be done, even if it’s not necessarily in your job description.”

Hilary shared some of her beautiful photos from this unique volunteer experience with us which are a great example of what we can achieve when we work together.

Joshua, a woodshop manager located near the EQWIP HUBs Mwanza location, helped transform Hilary’s table and shelving ideas into 3D reality

At the market, Hilary worked with Cesilia, a local curtain tailor, to create unique Tanzanian curtains using a beautiful traditional wax printed fabric called Kitenge.

Having spotted Selemani’s stand in the market, Hilary partnered with the local craftsman to create custom EQWIP HUBs signs.

Using the power of teamwork, Hilary and her fellow Canadian volunteers added a beautiful, custom EQWIP HUBs mural.

With the support of Tanzania country staff, volunteers and local workers, Hilary helped ensure EQWIP HUBs Mwanza is a vibrant, fresh space for local youth and volunteers to learn together.

Before - After

To see Hilary’s full photo essay of her time helping create this beautiful space, check out her blog.

Join EQWIP HUBs today as an international volunteer to work with ambitious youth from the developing world and share a transformative experience that helps change lives

EQWIP HUBs is funded, in part, by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada.