Kindness, Culture, and Conservation, My Volunteering Journey at Bali's Turtle Program

Victor, a 24-year-old computer engineering student from Paris, France, discovered a world beyond the digital realm through a life-changing experience in Bali.  Specializing in cybersecurity and cloud computing, Victor sought a break from his academic routine and, with the support of Bali Internships, joined a turtle conservation program that blended meaningful work with cultural exploration. Here's his story...

My name is Victor, and I am a 24-year-old student from Paris, France. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in computer science with a specialization in cybersecurity and cloud computing, I was looking for a way to step out of my comfort zone and engage in something different—something that would allow me to connect with nature while giving back to the world. This is where Bali Internships played a significant role in connecting me to a well-organized and impactful turtle conservation program in Bali.

I discovered the opportunity through a global volunteer platform website while searching for meaningful activities with two friends. Among the various options we found, this particular program stood out due to its organization and clear intent to make a real difference. With Bali Internships guiding us through the process, everything felt smooth and manageable. Their support in aligning my goals with the program’s mission made the decision easy.

My day-to-day activities at the Turtle Center were both structured and fulfilling. Each morning, we began by helping baby turtles hatch from their eggs—an incredibly rewarding task. Holding these tiny creatures and knowing I was contributing to their survival was a unique experience. We also cleaned the tanks to ensure a healthy environment for the turtles. These initial tasks set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Later in the day, I took on the role of a guide, giving tours to visitors. This allowed me to share knowledge about the turtles and their habitat. I conducted tours in both French and English, depending on the visitors’ preferences. This was a wonderful opportunity to bridge my background and my current environment while sharing insights about the conservation efforts.

One aspect that made the program special was the cultural exchange. It is truly remarkable to witness the kindness of the people and the breathtaking landscapes of Bali. Interacting with the local community and learning about their way of life was eye-opening. The warmth and friendliness I encountered daily were unlike anything I had experienced before. It was a refreshing change from the fast-paced life I knew in Paris The funding for my participation came from my parents, as I am still focused on my studies and have yet to start working. Their support made it possible for me to take part in this transformative journey. It was heartening to see how much they believed in the value of this experience for my personal growth.

A Genuine Impact

Reflecting on my time at the Turtle Center, one of the highlights was witnessing the genuine impact of our efforts. Knowing that the small actions I took each day contributed to the larger mission of conservation was deeply satisfying. Additionally, discovering a culture so different from my own enriched my understanding of the world. The combination of meaningful work and cultural discovery made every moment worthwhile.

Bali Internships deserves a lot of credit for facilitating this opportunity. Their expertise and dedication to helping participants find suitable programs ensured that my experience was seamless. From the initial application process to the day-to-day activities, their guidance was invaluable. They not only linked me with the program but also provided the reassurance and support needed to make the most of this opportunity.

If I were to sum up my experience in Bali in three words, they would be kindness, landscapes, and turtles. Each of these elements played a pivotal role in making this journey unforgettable. Kindness defined the interactions I had with the locals and the program staff. The landscapes offered a constant reminder of the beauty of nature. And of course, turtles were at the heart of it all, symbolizing the essence of the mission.

This journey was more than just an internship; it was a chance to step out of the digital realm I am so accustomed to and reconnect with the physical world. It showed me the importance of conservation and the impact small actions can have. As I move forward, I will carry the lessons and memories from this experience with me, knowing they have shaped me in profound ways.