Volunteer
Some of the comments volunteers regularly make....
Life Changing! The best time I've ever had! Simply Awesome! This is the best job in the world!
Do you want to become a part of the whale shark research team, visit the Maldives and be a part of something special. Come and swim in the crystal clear, turquiose waters and sleep on a boat under the stars while contributing to the protection and conservation of the whale shark???
Take part in every aspect of the research, photo I.D, sexing, logging encounters with software originally developed by NASA, producing presentations, even helping to take skin samples and deploy tags. And, if community focussed projects are your thing, look no further MWSRP. The MWSRP works with the local community on a daily basis.
All your skills will be put to good use, and if you want to test your fitness...it is all here.
For an insight into 'A Day in the life of a volunteer' check out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yf7vOC7oVa8
To follow Jay's experience as a volunteer in January 2010, please visit: www.maldivesjay.wordpress.com
Neil Evans- volunteer December 2008 - January 2009
"I bumped in to Richard at an opportune moment and it took about 5 secs to agree to take part in this programme as a volunteer. I'm a keen scuba diver and the thought of getting close to whale sharks was enough for me to sign my life away. I can honestly say that it is probably the most enjoyable and worthwhile 6 weeks of my life...where else can you get to do something you love, in beautiful surroundings (paradise) and make a positive contribution to the world in which we live. You really can make a difference by getting involved.
I spend a lot of time thinking about this trip and I'm very much hoping to get back out there and see how the programme is coming along."
Alex Cheong- volunteer December 2008 - January 2009
"I still believe in paradise. But now at least I know it's not some place you can look for, 'cause it's not where you go. It's how you feel for a moment in your life when you're a part of something, and if you find that moment... it lasts forever... "
"What the boys are doing out there is great!! If you have an opportunity to volunteer for MWSRP jump at it - its been one of the most rewarding 5 weeks of my life, and I've had over 60 encounters with whale sharks. I'm not sure if you can really call it volunteering. Spending days in paradise on top of a dhoni, spotting whale sharks and swimming with them. Ads and Rich are great, and I wish them nothing but the best for the challenges that the future will bring, I only hope I'll be able to join them again soon!"
Rachel Bott and Ben Fothergill- volunteers April - June 2009 (Photos coming soon)
After closely following the MWSRP we found an opportunity to become part of the team and get involved. We were not only lucky enough to spend quality time with some of the biggest and most incredible fish in the oceans, but found how much more the project has to offer. We met with local people from different islands including island chiefs and school teachers. We participated in school excursions including snorkeling and first encounters with Whale Sharks. To be involved in the creation of a Marine Protected Area and know the benefits that will follow is incredibly rewarding and just exemplifies what team effort and hard work can achieve. The project challenges those with all sorts of interests and backgrounds and is sure to provide an unique and fun experience. From now on our lives will never be the same (in a good way!).
How does it work?
Once you are in Male we will get you to South Ari where the team will meet you and begin your initiation. We may even jump straight on the boat, head out to the reef and begin shark spotting.
The working week - We aim to be on the water 4 - 5 days, 1 - 2 days are office based, and 1 day off (trust us, you'll need it!). Everyday brings a new challenge and no day will be the same.
A financial contribution is required which will cover your transfers from Male, food, soft drinks and accommodation costs for the duration of your trip. The contributions are as follows:
2 weeks = £800
3 weeks = £1200
4 weeks = £1500 (donations for 4 weeks and over include a visa to cover your stay in the Maldives)
5 weeks = £1800
6 weeks = £2000
These contribution also includes a small donation to the charity which helps enable MWSRP's important research to continue.
You can now utilise the MWSRP Just Giving page to raise the contribution required for your position. For information about the just giving fund raising scheme click here.
If you would like to help protect these fish but prefer to stay grounded we would still love to hear from you.
MWSRP now has a 2011 London Marathon position available. Fancy achieving that amazing ambition and making a difference to the Maldivian eco-system at the same time? Contact us - click the link below.