Realise Your Potential
About Us
ATOVA International is a UK-registered charity dedicated to creating meaningful and sustainable change through education, conservation, and community empowerment. Operating in the breathtaking landscapes of North Sumatra, Indonesia, our mission is to unite humanity as one global tribe, working together to build a brighter, more harmonious future.
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At ATOVA, we believe in the boundless potential of individuals to do good. Our programs are designed not only to empower local communities but also to foster deep cultural exchange and personal growth for those who join us. Whether it’s through education, environmental conservation, or hands-on community projects, we aim to create impactful experiences that leave a lasting legacy for everyone involved.
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Our Empowerment Through Education (ETE) program currently provides free, high-quality education to over 1000 students across 10 rural communities in North Sumatra. With a focus on English as a second language, we aim to bridge cultural devides and equip young people with the tools to engage with the global community. Education is the cornerstone of our mission, because before unity, there must be understanding.
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In the conservation space, our pioneering ATOVA Ranger Training Corps program is working to protect one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems, the Leuser Ecosystem - a UNESCO world heritage site and the last place on Earth where orangutans, tigers, elephants, and rhinos coexist in the wild. By training the next generation of environmental guardians, we empower young people with skills in leadership, first aid, and conservation techniques, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the environmental challenges of the future.
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Collaboration and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do. Over 80% of ATOVA's team is made up of local Indonesian staff, who bring invaluable knowledge and insight to our programs. In line with our philosophy of personal growth, we provide free professional development opportunities for all staff members, helping them to maximise their potential while contributing to the organisation's mission.
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For international participants, our ATOVA Citizen Service placements offer transformative opportunities to volunteer on the frontlines of education, conservation, and community development. Volunteers work side by side with our local teams, gaining hands on experience that builds their skills and broadens their horizons while directly supporting our mission.
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Your support is what makes our work possible. Whether through volunteering, donating, or sponsoring a volunteer, your involvement helps to empower lives, protect nature, and create a better future for all. Every contribution - however large, helps us make a lasting impact.
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With the climate crisis intensifying, ATOVA International remains steadfast in our mission to create positive and lasting change. By joining an ATOVA program, you’re not only contributing to the well-being of our planet and its communities but also embarking on a transformative journey of personal growth.
One thing is certain: you will never be the same again.
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Our Philosophy
At ATOVA , we take pride in being problem solvers who are not afraid to take risks. We believe that with boldness, and creativity and heart, there is nothing we cannot accomplish. But above all, our strength lies in teamwork. Each and every one of us has the capability to contribute no matter their experience or background. With this strength behind us, just imagine what we can achieve together.
Realise your potential
Our Mantra "Realise Your Potential" speaks of our commitment as an organisation and culture of changemakers to help you to develop both on a personal and professional level. We believe that every Human being on Earth has the potential to be a significant force for good, and that sadly many of us do not find the confidence, motivation or opportunity to realise our own capacity.
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"Every Human being on Earth has within themselves the capacity to do good. Now in the 21st century, the survival of our species, and every other species on Earth depends upon our ability to realise that potential"
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Samuel Oakes | CEO & Founder
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Why ATOVA?
At ATOVA we believe in the power of you! That's why our volunteers take the lead on the delivery of all of our programs around the world.
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Unlike traditional not for profit organizations we give you ownership over your own experience, giving you the training, skills and development you need to deliver our programs on the ground yourself.
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WHAT MAKES ATOVA SPECIAL
Flexibility:
We know in todays post COVID world, it can be really difficult to pin down travel plans, and sometimes things just come up. That's why we offer free cancellation & rescheduling on all of our volunteer placements up to 30 days before your placement starts, to give you peace of mind when you need it most.
Next Gen Development:
ATOVA is a new breed of Charity, built upon a collective 150 years of experience in a range of practical, vocational and educational fields. Our programs reflect this, with curriculums designed in line with the latest research surrounding environmental conservation, sustainable development and education provision.
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Partnerships for the goals:
We work with a growing community of Project Partners to deliver high quality climate and education solutions in all of our target communities around the world.
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Alumni Network:
Our brand new Alumni family and fully supported Action @ Home projects ensure your adventure does not end at the end of your placement. To find out more, head to our Make a Difference Page!
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Digital Opportunities:
In a changing world we are ready to change with it, that's why we are offering you the opportunity to become one of our Ambassadors and help us to drive positive change around the world.
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People First:
Here at ATOVA people are at the heart of everything we do. Our dedicated team will guide you through an authentic cultural experience we call 'The Volunteer Journey' where you live and learn with the local community you are serving. This Culture of people first, comes from our belief in the inherent untapped potential within each and every one of us, and our teams confidence, in their ability to help you realise it! To find out more check out our Make a Difference Page!
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