Bona Fides Association and Worldwide Friends Iceland (WF) are looking for participants (citizens or residents of Poland, aged 18-30) for an ESC project in the north of Iceland!
Place: Siglufjörður in North Iceland
Flexible duration: 2-4 months
Departure dates set: 4-May, 18-May, 1-Jun, 15-Jun, 29-Jun, 13-Jul, 27-Jul, 10-Aug, 24-Aug, 7-Sep
About the hosting organisation
Founded in 2001, WF Iceland is a non-profit organization promoting nature and peace oriented activities for volunteers from around the world. WF also supports Icelanders traveling abroad to participate in similar volunteer programs. Our main activities include workcamps, exchange programs, and educational seminars.
Why Volunteer with WF Iceland?
Volunteering with WF Iceland gives you a unique chance to explore Iceland’s landscapes and culture, while working alongside international volunteers and local residents. You’ll gain hands-on experience in environmental and community projects, develop intercultural skills, and build friendships that span the globe.
Key Goals of WF Iceland
Promoting Peace and Friendship
• Build understanding and trust across cultures
• Encourage meaningful international connections
Intercultural Learning and Awareness
• Share traditions and perspectives with volunteers worldwide
• Enhance teamwork, communication, and cultural understanding
Preserving Icelandic Nature & Environmental Awareness
• Protect forests, beaches, and local habitats
• Learn sustainable practices and Iceland’s unique ecosystems
Promoting Volunteering Culture
• Inspire a lifelong commitment to volunteerism
• Gain practical experience in community and environmental projects
The WF Iceland Experience
Volunteers engage in challenging and rewarding projects, including forestry, beach cleaning, and community activities. This hands-on work combined with the stunning Icelandic landscapes and interaction with people from diverse backgrounds makes every day a learning opportunity. By joining WF Iceland, you become part of a global effort to promote peace, cultural understanding, and environmental stewardship—all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.
The work
The main work in Siglufjörður and Ólafsfjörður is forestry and community environmental care, with seasonal variations. Participants help take care of a manmade forest, working to improve and maintain the area, and also assist with beach cleaning activities during certain months. Most activities are outdoors and can vary depending on the season and weather.
Typical Tasks Include:
Forestry and Environmental Work:
• Replanting trees, bushes, and flowers
• Moving plants to more suitable locations
• Planting new vegetation
• Repairing or setting up fences
• Cutting branches, trimming or removing dead trees
• Mowing grass, collecting debris, and maintaining walking paths
Community Projects:
• Assisting with small renovation projects, such as helping with the local church or cleaning community spaces
Beach Cleaning (April–June):
• Collecting litter and debris along the coastline
• Removing waste that affects wildlife and the natural environment
• Raising awareness about environmental care in local communities
Tasks often depend on the day’s priorities, so flexibility and teamwork are essential. Participants also get time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, sometimes ending the day with a small barbecue by the river. This placement offers hands-on experience in community work and environmental care, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of northern Iceland.
Seasonal Focus:
Beach Cleaning: April to June
Forestry: June to September
Our work will depend on the needs of the local community and the season. This is a perfect project for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges. Working hours are on average 5 hours a day, 5 days a week.
Skills & Knowledge
• Environmental Maintenance: Hands-on experience in replanting trees, and flowers, as well as learning about native species and sustainable reforestation practices.
• Forestry Management: Understanding basic forest care, including cutting dead or unwanted trees, trimming branches, and maintaining healthy forest areas.
• Land and Infrastructure Care: Developing skills in building and repair, basic construction and trail maintenance.
• Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Learning to manage daily tasks that can vary depending on weather conditions and community needs.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working closely with local coordinators and other participants in a supportive and dynamic environment.
The main purpose of the project is to raise awareness of sustainability among both local and international youth in their everyday lives, while also engaging them in cultural exchange activities that foster mutual understanding and intercultural learning.
Check out The Infopack to find out more details about the project:
Application
Send your CV and motivation letter (in English) to mariachiara@bonafides.pl and anna@bonafides.pl with a title: ‘ESC in Siglufjörður, Iceland’ or contact us for any further information!
Check out all the projects we’re currently recruiting for
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