“It is not news to you that many people across the world live under the oppression of poverty. People who do not have the same opportunities we are fortunate enough to have had. Basic education, the security of a functioning healthcare system (yes the NHS...it's an incredible service), and the ability to work for our livings and provide for our families, are things that many of us take for granted every day. VSO works to change that.

This April I will be going to Malawi for 6 months to volunteer with VSO as a Natural Resources Management Advisor. Why am I giving up a secure, well paid job, comfortable home and leaving some amazing friends and family for this? I have asked myself that a few times and the answer keeps changing, but I have an opportunity to use my skills and knowledge to make significant lasting change and I can’t pass that up.

One of the greatest injustices in the world at the moment is that those who did not cause climate change are the ones being most negatively affected by it. While in Malawi I will be working with local farmers and communities, together we will be looking at ways that they can become more resilient to the effects of climate change. What does that mean? In short, 90% of people in Malawi rely on agriculture for their living. When crops fail, due to erratic weather conditions caused by climate change, farmers struggle to feed themselves and their families. By looking at alternative farming techniques and more efficient water management systems it may be possible to change this. It's a Goliath size task, but VSO is all about taking on the challenge.

I’m fundraising in support of all VSO projects, which benefit around 2 million people every year. By donating to my page you are not paying for just one placement, you are supporting all of VSO’s vital work, enabling them to continue to change the world through the power of volunteering. If you are able to help, even in the smallest of ways then I would be very
grateful.