Speaking on last week’s Kava mo Kajap podcast, Garae explained that the Red Cross focuses heavily on hands-on training for its volunteers.

“Many of our volunteers receive practical training that prepares them to respond during disasters and emergencies,” he said.

According to him, the skills gained through the VRCS often open doors to careers in other organisations, particularly in fields such as disaster risk reduction, climate change programmes and humanitarian work.

Garae, who has worked with the VRCS for about 14 years, said the organisation has trained hundreds of volunteers over the years.

“When I first started there were about 600 volunteers involved. Over time many have completed their service and moved on to jobs or other opportunities. Today, we still have around 300 active volunteers supporting Red Cross programmes,” he said.

He noted that volunteer training goes beyond disaster response, with participants also learning communication, teamwork and community engagement skills.

Before taking part in field operations, volunteers go through proper registration, induction training and disaster preparedness exercises.

“They must understand the procedures, communication lines and safety protocols before they can respond to any disaster situation,” Garae explained.

VRCS is also working with younger generations through school programmes aimed at building leadership skills early in life.

Mr. Garae said some of these programmes begin with children as young as in year nine, helping them learn about community service, responsibility and disaster preparedness.

“We try to change the mindset of young people and encourage them to become leaders in their communities,” he said.

With youth unemployment remaining a challenge in Vanuatu, Garae believes volunteering can play a key role in helping young people build experience and confidence.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST