Volunteer stories: Esther Fan
“I’ve been fortunate to take part in several volunteer trips since graduating from university, working in areas such as youth development and veterinary medicine. Those experiences took me to places like India, Mongolia and Bolivia, but I had always hoped to volunteer closer to home in the Pacific Islands.
I first heard about SPAW as a new graduate when I learned that other vets were heading away on a trip. I remember feeling genuinely gutted that the opportunity hadn’t existed when I was studying at Massey. From that moment, joining a future trip stayed quietly on my bucket list. Years later, after mentioning it to a few colleagues, it was fantastic to have one of them would be travelling alongside me to Tonga.
Out of my international volunteer trips, this was the shortest and the most intense. We worked hard but with joy from morning until evening, tending to all the animals that lined up outside our door. From the excellent pre-trip manuals to the smooth organisation on the ground, everything ran like a well-oiled machine.
What made the experience really special, though, were the people. Our SPAW team, combined with Tongan helpers, brought a mix of skills and personalities and I loved getting to know everyone. Those who brought their animals for treatment were incredibly generous. We were gifted bananas from their plantations, other local snacks and hosted for meals. Everywhere we went we were met with gratitude.
The work itself was rewarding and eye-opening. I gained a deep respect for Tongan dogs, whose resilience amazed me. Outside the clinic, swimming at the waterfront after a long day became my favourite way to unwind, while hearing locals sing in beautiful four-part harmonies remains one of my most enduring memories.
If you’re considering volunteering, my advice is simple: just do it! You may go intending to serve, but you’ll receive far more than you ever expect. After more than 15 years in the veterinary profession, I can confidently say that experiences like this change your perspective, deepen your gratitude, and remind you why giving back matters.”
