One big problem lately with western humanitarian aid though is how volunteerism has turned into ‘voluntourism.’ ‘Voluntourism’ is best described by Rafia Zakaria as well-intentioned Western volunteers who travel to distant places with little to no regard for culture, history or ethical challenges they bring into communities that are not theirs. It is someone who wishes to combine charitable work with an exotic vacation.

My friend Jack likes to tell his favorite story about a summer he spent volunteering in Colombia. He recounts that story anytime he’s handed the opportunity, at parties, lunch meetings and airports. He highlights varying facets of the story on different occasions — the snake he found in his tent, his camaraderie with the locals and his skills at haggling.