The Shaster Foundation established the Indlovu project in Monwabisi Park informal settlement in 2005. Because the Indlovu Project is our own, we ensure that all funds go directly to running and improving our facilities; building and upgrading volunteer accommodations; upgrading of public facilities such as crèches in the community; and creating a sustainable tourism enterprise. By supporting us you support the long term sustainability of our community development project.

Our project is open to anyone interested in volunteering in South Africa including those on a college summer break, gap year, career break or volunteer vacation. Volunteers from overseas using their talents and knowledge to assist in community development are important to us. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet and work with, and they gain or share experience in a chosen field. We believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

In addition, this project offers you the opportunity to become fully immersed in the vibrant, colourful South African township culture in a manner which even most backpackers could never hope to do.

Volunteering with the Shaster Foundation allows you opportunities to network with other like minded people, contribute to the development and upliftment of an impoverished urban community, and learn new skills in such activities as building, gardening and teaching.  There are opportunities to hear and learn stories relating to South Africa's past, hear inspiring stories of those overcoming challenges, and get involved in a variety of fields from early childhood education to organic gardening.

For volunteers with specific music skills, there are also unique opportunities to work with Dizu Plaatjies (founder of the well known Xhosa folk group Amampondo). Dizu lectures on African music at the University of Cape Town, and runs weekly workshops at our youth centre.

Your involvement is essential to the success of our organization. No matter where you live, what your skills are or how much time you have to give, we will provide you with an opportunity to make a tangible difference with intimate community-based relationships in a variety of fields.

Responsible volunteering looks great on a CV and is good for one's personal well being and self development. Every person counts and you can make a difference in the lives of many people.