It's frustrating not having the right tools for a job.

We've all felt the annoyance of not having the right bit of equipment when we need it but for many of us, getting what we need is within our means.

For people living in poverty in Africa its often a different story and getting the tools they need is a real challenge but this is where you can help.

This Christmas support more people in Africa to be equipped with life changing tools and skills.

Meet Joseph aged 22 and Kwabena,18. Both families rely mainly on farming, but the poor quality, drought prone soil of the region means that for up to half the year, there isn't always enough to eat.

"When I looked around, I saw that trade people had a future, but I didn't." Joseph

Their lives changed when they found out about a training opportunity, supported by Tools for Self Reliance. Joseph and Kwabena embarked upon a 12-month course in shoe repair, and learnt how to produce and repair shoes. At the end of the training, they were equipped with a start up kit of tools, meaning they could start earning an income straight away.

"Training through an apprenticeship means I can be something." Kwabena

Importantly they also learnt how to run a business during their training, covering topics such as basic bookkeeping, costing and pricing and customer service. Business skills training is one of the ways we maximise the impact of training, and ensure that projects are sustainable along with life skills, literacy and numeracy, and even health awareness.

Your gift today doesn't just support people like Joseph and Kwabena, but is an investment in the next generation.

If you could make a gift of £63 today, more people will have a future to look forward to. More tools that have been cared for can be put into service again. For people living in poverty, tools mean the difference between knowing how to do a job, and being able to use that knowledge to create a better future.

Please, if you can, make a donation to our work this Christmas - anything you can afford really will make a genuine difference.