Good morning,

My university has given me an incredible opportunity to volunteer at a refugee camp in Greece. Part of this volunteering scheme involves a fundraising element, of which the proceeds in their entirety will go either directly to the refugees with whom we will come into contact or the Non-Governmental Organisations whom assist them. So today I am asking all of my friends and family to consider, if able, to give, no matter how small, in order to aid those in need.

Imagine, after years of successful studying, becoming a doctor, a lawyer, an electrician, a teacher. Finally successfully getting the job of your dreams, only to realise, due to conflict in your country, you will have to give them up in order for a chance to survive just one more day. Imagine you were a child whom never got to have those few years in either primary or high school and lack the most basic opportunities many of us would take for granted.

At this very moment, someone has experienced just this and had such a dream snatched from them. They've witnessed the absolute destruction of their neighbourhoods, homes, schools, everything that holds some memorable meaning. After spending time moving place to place, they take the final chance at a new life. Giving up all of their worldly possessions, they their bags and put their lives into the hands of absolute strangers. Strangers whom are only motivated by whatever money they still posses.

These smugglers take them to a worn down, overcrowded boat, one which they would never travel in them selves, and wish them good luck. Good luck because there is a high chance they may not make it. Yet, this is just the beginning of their journey. A journey that involves travelling hundreds of miles on foot, facing hunger, poverty and homelessness. Placing all of their hopes and dreams into the hands of countries, whom for all intents and purposes, do not want them....

I'm so glad to have a chance to volunteer and do whatever I can to help.