Thank you for taking the time to visit my page =)

"Do not turn away a poor man, even if all you can give is half a date" Prophet Muhammad

This quote seemed to echo in my head, as I almost gave up my placement on the ISC scheme. After an 8 page application, phone calls, emails, an assessment day and 45 minute interview, I should have been thrilled to have gained a place with International Service....

International Service is one of the charity agencies on the ICS scheme, funded by the UK government Department of International Develpment (note therefore, donations will not go towards my placement, but directly for the charity).

International Service work in Latin America, Africa and Palestine, with local communities, NGOs and charities, to accomplish the UN Millennium Development goals:

1. Eradicating extreme poverty and hunger

2. Achieving universal primary education

3. Promoting gender equality and empowering women

4. Reducing child mortality rates

5. Improving maternal health

6. Combating HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases

7. Ensuring environmental sustainability

8. Developing a global partnership for development

Everything about this placement seemed perfect. It’s everything the very essence of by being stands for! As someone who has had strong emotions since my earliest memories, about the struggles faced by people of the developing world, marginalised and vulnerable communities; an opportunity to finally use all my skills/qualifications to help was a gift!

...So why then, was I about to give up this opportunity?

I am ashamed to say, that my reason was the thought of the heat! I hated the thought of being placed in a hot country (despite my pleas) for 3 whole months! Can you imagine, 3 months! In basic living conditions! With no air con! Or car! Or facilities I'm used to!?





But the thing is, the people I apparently want to help, don't have to live with basic conditions in the scorching heat for 3 long months. That is where and how they live their whole lives.





As I watched ‘youtube’ videos of volunteers in Ghana, and saw the innocent smiles of children living in poverty, I was ashamed to think I have a chance to do something small with my life, that could make a big change to their lifestyle.. yet I didn't want to be uncomfortable for a matter of weeks. The reason I say 'change their lifestyle' is not because I feel so big and important, but because of the nature of work IS do: 
http://www.internationalservice.org.uk/work_with_us/our_ics_projects/ghana_projects.html

So this is 'my story' :D I am going to Ghana for 3 months, in which God-willing I am able to contribute ideas and work that catalyses progress for empowering some of the poorest communities… And also teaches me to live more humbly! :)

I follow a faith that teaches me to be grateful to whom I give charity to, because though I may be helping them attain a richer life, they are in-fact helping me attain blessings far more valuable… And you are all welcome to share those blessings :p  by donating here today! Whether you know me or not, its for the cause and for yourself. 




Peace and love
Zainab
♡ ♡ ♡