Providing hope: influences of volunteer tourism on program youth

Global South youth are considered members of a host community and are receivers of volunteer tourism development programs. However, their perceptions have rarely been included in volunteer tourism studies. Influences of volunteer tourism on youth lives tends to be from the “gap year” or young adult volunteer tourist perspective rather than program youth input. In addition, studies on influences of youth-focused community programs on program beneficiaries (youth) are prevalent in positive youth development literature but are noticeably absent in tourism research. Considering these gaps, the aim of this study is to explore influences of a volunteer tourist-led community development program on Moshi, Tanzanian youth as perceived by 40 study participants (program youth, volunteer tourist teachers, and community members). Particular attention is given to program youth participation and subsequent viewpoints. Findings from observations, interviews and focus group data contained within a qualitative case study design, suggest connections, emotional benefits and expertise are influences of volunteer tourism on program youth. A major emergent theme is the concept of hope for youth.