As a child growing up in the UK, I was lucky enough to have most things easily available to me.

Simple things like food on the table or toys to play with were the norm, and I was lucky enough to have a family that cared for me, loved me, and provided for me.

I’m extremely grateful that my parents had the means to give me a very privileged lifestyle.

But of course, there are people in this world who don’t have it as easy as I did.

It’s something that’s become increasingly apparent to me over the past few years, and I feel more and more of a responsibility to give back where I can.

That’s why this year I’ve made the choice of travelling to Ghana to do my bit for the vulnerable and excluded children of society.

Over the course of a week, I’ll be meeting, working, and lending a helping hand for the children at the Virgin Kids Academy in the village of Kaneshie-Accra, so I can give back and provide them with things I had as a child.

I’m sure, to some it may seem that I’m just a “wealthy businessman” seeking personal gain and recognition, but to me this trip means a lot more.

As a father of two I feel an immense gratitude at being able to give my children the kind of lifestyle I had growing up.

I’d like to set an example for my kids to help make them aware that things aren’t as easy for everyone, and that it’s important for them to not take for granted the things that seem so simple.

I’m reminded of the story told to me by a friend who went to Ghana last year.

She brought with her, among other things, a packet of colouring pencils. When she arrived at the village school, she handed them out to the children.

The children were ecstatic – they’d never used colouring pencils before.

Their appreciation of this simple gesture was shown in the drawings they made of my friend – in full, vivid colour thanks to their new gift.

This story really inspired me, and that’s why I made the decision to go to Ghana later this year. But I’ve also set a big goal, too.

My goal is to raise £15,000, so I can give a big helping hand to these children and provide them with seemingly small gifts that will make a huge difference.

…But I’m going to need your help to do it.

Your donation will go a long way to helping the children improve their education.

For the many at the school who don’t have a family, their friends at the Academy are the only family they do have. And the opportunity for education presents something so promising for them - the opportunity to achieve something beyond their means.

And while the donations have a massive impact in the welfare of these children’s lives, the biggest joy they feel comes from the thought that there are so many out there willing to help them have a better life, and a better future.

So with less than 3 months to go until I leave in November, every penny counts.

The money will go towards helping the children further their education, and contributing to the Academy’s goal of giving selfless social services to their community.

If you’d like to become a part of something that will make a difference to these children for years to come, please donate today.

Thank you,

Josh