Our Volunteers

The Heart of Our Organization

Dedicated individuals making a difference in the Zomi community

Volunteer-Driven Impact

Zomi Association of Malaysia is primarily powered by volunteers who generously contribute their time, skills, and passion to support the refugee community. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, including both the Zomi community and Malaysian locals, united by their commitment to making a difference.

From translation services and healthcare assistance to educational support and administrative tasks, our volunteers are involved in every aspect of our operations. Their dedication allows us to maximize our impact and reach more people in need while keeping operational costs low.

Our Volunteer Community

Currently, ZAM has over 50 active volunteers serving across our departments. These dedicated individuals include professionals who provide specialized skills, students gaining practical experience, and community members giving back. Many of our volunteers are themselves refugees who understand firsthand the challenges faced by the community.

We believe in creating a supportive and enriching environment for our volunteers, offering training, mentorship, and the opportunity to develop new skills while making a meaningful contribution to a vital humanitarian cause.

ZAM Volunteer Group

Our volunteer team at the annual appreciation event

50+
Active volunteers
7
Volunteer departments
5000+
Volunteer hours annually

Volunteer Opportunities

Ways you can contribute your skills and time

Healthcare Volunteers

Assist with translation at hospitals, coordinate medical appointments, and help with health education initiatives.

Skills Needed:

  • Medical background (doctors, nurses, students)
  • Translation abilities (English/Malay to Zomi dialects)
  • Compassion and communication skills
  • Knowledge of healthcare systems
Learn More

Education Volunteers

Teach at our education center, develop curriculum, tutor students, or assist with educational administration.

Skills Needed:

  • Teaching experience or education background
  • Knowledge in specific subjects
  • Patience and ability to work with children
  • Curriculum development skills
Learn More

Intervention Volunteers

Assist during emergencies, help with translations during arrests or accidents, and coordinate crisis response.

Skills Needed:

  • Crisis management abilities
  • Translation skills
  • Knowledge of legal procedures
  • Availability for emergency response
Learn More

Women's Program Volunteers

Support women's empowerment initiatives, handicraft training, and women's health programs.

Skills Needed:

  • Experience in women's programs
  • Handicraft or vocational skills
  • Sensitivity to gender issues
  • Group facilitation abilities
Learn More

Administrative Volunteers

Assist with office administration, database management, communications, and organizational support.

Skills Needed:

  • Administrative and organizational skills
  • Computer proficiency
  • Communication abilities
  • Attention to detail
Contact Us

Media & Communications

Help document our work, manage social media, develop promotional materials, and raise awareness about refugee issues.

Skills Needed:

  • Photography or videography skills
  • Social media management
  • Writing and content creation
  • Design abilities
Contact Us

How to Become a Volunteer

Your journey to making a difference starts here

1

Initial Contact

Complete our volunteer application form or contact us expressing your interest in volunteering. Let us know about your skills, availability, and areas of interest.

Contact Us
2

Interview & Orientation

We'll schedule an interview to discuss your interests and how they align with our needs. This is followed by an orientation session to familiarize you with our organization.

3

Department Placement

Based on your skills and our current needs, we'll place you with the most appropriate department. You'll receive specific training for your volunteer role.

4

Start Volunteering

Begin your volunteer journey with support from experienced team members. Your commitment can be flexible, from a few hours weekly to more intensive involvement.

5

Ongoing Support

We provide regular check-ins, additional training opportunities, and volunteer appreciation events to ensure your experience is rewarding and impactful.

Volunteer FAQs

Common questions about volunteering with ZAM

What is the minimum time commitment required?

We welcome volunteers with various availability. The minimum commitment is generally 4 hours per month, though some roles (like emergency response or teaching) may require more regular involvement. We can work with you to find a schedule that fits your availability.

Do I need to speak Zomi languages to volunteer?

While knowledge of Zomi languages is valuable for certain roles (particularly translation and direct community engagement), it's not required for all volunteer positions. Many of our volunteers speak only English or Malay and work alongside Zomi-speaking team members when translation is needed.

Is there any training provided for volunteers?

Yes, all volunteers receive a general orientation about ZAM and refugee issues, plus specific training for their volunteer role. We believe in equipping our volunteers with the knowledge and skills they need to be effective. Ongoing training opportunities are also available throughout your volunteer journey.

Can I volunteer remotely or do I need to be in Kuala Lumpur?

While many of our volunteer roles require physical presence in Kuala Lumpur to interact with the community, we do have some remote volunteering opportunities, particularly in areas like content creation, translation of written materials, website management, and administrative support. Please specify your location constraints when applying.

I'm a student. Can volunteering with ZAM count toward my community service requirements?

Yes, we regularly work with students who need to fulfill community service or internship requirements. We can provide documentation of your volunteer hours and responsibilities. Please inform us of any specific requirements from your educational institution when you apply.

Are there any costs associated with volunteering?

There are no fees to become a volunteer. We provide necessary training and materials for your role. Volunteers are typically responsible for their own transportation to and from the volunteer location. For certain activities that require additional expenses, ZAM may provide reimbursement with prior approval.

Volunteer Recognition

How we appreciate and celebrate our volunteers

At ZAM, we deeply value the contributions of our volunteers and recognize their essential role in our organization's impact. We believe in celebrating their dedication and ensuring their volunteer experience is rewarding.

Our Recognition Initiatives:

  • Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event: A special celebration honoring all volunteers and presenting awards for outstanding contributions.
  • Volunteer of the Month: Recognition of extraordinary volunteer efforts with feature stories on our website and social media.
  • Reference Letters: Providing detailed reference letters for volunteers who have demonstrated commitment and excellence.
  • Skill Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and skill enhancement relevant to volunteer roles.
  • Community Building: Social events, team activities, and networking opportunities to build connections within our volunteer community.
Volunteer Appreciation Event

Our annual volunteer appreciation event celebrating the dedication of our team

Volunteer Voices

What our volunteers say about their experience

"Volunteering with ZAM has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The relationships I've built with the Zomi community have changed my perspective and enriched my life in ways I never expected. If you're considering volunteering, don't hesitate—the impact goes both ways."
Lisa, Education Volunteer

Lisa

Education Volunteer, 2 years

"As a healthcare professional, volunteering with ZAM has allowed me to use my skills in a meaningful way beyond my regular job. The gratitude expressed by patients when they can finally understand their medical situation through translation is immeasurable. The ZAM team is supportive and passionate, making volunteering here a joy."
Dr. Ahmad, Healthcare Volunteer

Dr. Ahmad

Healthcare Volunteer, 3 years

"I started volunteering with ZAM to gain experience in social work, but I've gained so much more—friendships, cultural exchange, and perspective. The organization is well-structured, providing clear guidance while allowing volunteers to contribute their unique skills and ideas. It's become an important part of my life."
Priya, Administrative Volunteer

Priya

Administrative Volunteer, 1 year

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join our volunteer team and help create positive change in the lives of Zomi refugees in Malaysia.

Apply to Volunteer Today