Hi everyone, I'm Joshua Taylor, and I'm a 18-year-old Scout on a mission to make a tangible difference in the world.

This August 2025, I'm embarking on a life-changing three-week expedition to Mulanje, Malawi. I've been given the incredible opportunity to volunteer with FOMO (Friends of Mulanje Orphans), an amazing charity dedicated to improving the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children by providing essential support like food, clothing, education, and nurturing care.

My Mission: Hands-On Impact in Malawi

My team and I will be taking a hands-on approach to community development, focusing on building sustainable solutions that will benefit the local population for years to come. As part of this Scout of the World project, I've been chosen to be a project manager, overseeing the construction of vital infrastructure. Our key initiatives include:

• Building Eco-Friendly Rocket Stoves: These innovative stoves use minimal fuel, directly combating deforestation in an area where firewood is scarce. Crucially, they also drastically reduce harmful smoke inhalation, significantly improving the health and well-being of families in Mulanje. This is about transforming daily cooking into a safer, more sustainable practice.

• Creating Safe Community Parks: We'll be constructing safe, green spaces where children can play, socialize, and thrive. These parks are more than just playgrounds; they provide an essential environment for children to exercise, enjoy their childhood, and experience a sense of joy and community that is often overlooked in impoverished areas.

• Essential Infrastructure & Maintenance: Beyond the major projects, we'll also be involved in building wells, toilets, improving existing cooking facilities, and undertaking crucial building maintenance and painting to enhance the living conditions for the children and local community.

The Scout of the World Award: A Commitment to Global Change

This journey is a significant step towards earning the prestigious Scout of the World Award, recognized by the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM). This award encourages young Scouts like me to actively engage with global issues such as sustainable development, climate change, and humanitarian aid. My work in Malawi directly contributes to this commitment, as I tackle real-world challenges, engage with the local community, and contribute to projects aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. It's an honor to demonstrate the values of leadership, service, and global citizenship.

A Journey of Growth and Connection

Beyond the physical work, my time in Malawi will be an invaluable cultural exchange. I'm excited to experience the warmth and resilience of the Malawian people, learn about their traditions, and connect with the children I'm there to support. Living and working alongside them will deepen my understanding of their challenges and the strength they show in overcoming them. Seeing the smiles we create will no doubt be the most rewarding part of this journey.

Your Support Makes a Direct Impact

I am committed to raising £4,000 to fund these vital projects and cover my expedition costs. Every single donation helps to:

• Provide sustainable cooking solutions for families.

• Create safe and nurturing spaces for children to play and grow.

• Support FOMO's ongoing work to feed, clothe, and educate vulnerable orphans.

Please consider donating today to help me bring hope, health, and happiness to the children of Mulanje. Your support means the world to me, and it will undeniably make a lasting positive change in this deserving community.

Thank you for being a part of this transformative journey with me.

Warmly,

Joshua Taylor

Fomo charity

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.