We can always count on volunteers to help us transform the lives of children

On International Volunteer Day 2024, we celebrate thousands of volunteers and their contribution to UNICEF's work and the sustainable development across the globe

UNICEF
Man wearing vest that reads "UNICEF" smiles. Two women sitting next to him smiling. Overlay text reads: "You can always count on volunteers"
UNV/UNICEF
05 December 2024

International Volunteer Day 2024

Celebrating our volunteers and their contributions to UNICEF's mandate

On the International Volunteer Day 2024, we highlight the invaluable contributions of volunteers worldwide. 2,232 volunteers mobilized with UNICEF in 2024, through the United Nations Volunteer (UNV) programme. Let's hear from just a few of them who dedicate their skills and passion making a difference every day through impactful actions.

Join us in celebrating the significant impact of volunteerism in driving sustainable development across the globe, while delivering results for children and young people.

On International Volunteer Day 2024, we celebrate dedicated UN Volunteers worldwide who tackle some of the world's biggest challenges, including contributing to the delivery of lifesaving programmes for the most vulnerable children.

Nirold – implementing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives in the Philippines

Nirold, a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Officer at UNICEF Philippines, interacts with different stakeholders, civil society and non-profit organizations. Nirold's volunteering expands on Sustainable Development Goal 6—Clean Water and Sanitation.

We are the foot soldiers for every organization

Dorice - helping UNICEF staff efficiently share and retain knowledge through our systems

Dorice Mkiva, is a UN Volunteer Knowledge Management Officer with UNICEF Tanzania. "My inspiration", she says, "comes from never giving up and that's the message I give to everyone—fight for your dreams."

I have seen firsthand how volunteerism shapes youth positively. I am proof that when we break down barriers, when we stop seeing differences as limitations, we build a future where everyone regardless of age or ability, can thrive.

Moïse - participating in the flood response in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Moise Ashuza, a young champion in the second UNV cohort, takes part in an activity in Kalehe, in South Kivu, with the U-Report community in response to floods.
UNV/DRC/2023
Moise Ashuza, a young champion in the second UNV cohort, takes part in an activity in Kalehe, in South Kivu, with the U-Report community in response to floods.

In May 2023, flash floods and landslides killed hundreds of people in Kalehe in South Kivu province in eastern DRC. Moïse, 24, decided to assist young people in the affected areas to take positive action within their communities. As many as 70 young people followed his lead and volunteered to rehabilitate a bridge that was destroyed during the floods.

I thought I needed to do something. I approached other young people, and they immediately understood that it was time to forget the pain, get organized and unite to act positively

Asfia - supporting quality education for Rohingya children and youth in Cox’s Bazar

Asfia Tarannoom is a UN Volunteer Education Officer with UNICEF in Bangladesh.  For Asfia, her assignment is part of UNICEF's humanitarian education response and makes a positive difference to thousands of learners living in harsh conditions in the camp

Witnessing the impact of my volunteer work and how it fosters a positive learning environment in the camp setting is rewarding. This is what keeps me waking up the next day

Across the globe, United Nations Volunteers rise to meet challenges that affect children and their communities—climate change, inequality, and more—turning problems into progress.

This International Volunteer Day 2024 let's celebrate them and step up to join them in achieving the #GlobalGoals.

Join us

United Nations Volunteers are assigned across UNICEF offices to acquire professional experience, while contributing to our mission to protect the rights of children.

Learn more about the programme and how you can join UNICEF as a United Nations Volunteer