Some of you may know that I have been selected to go on a Global Exchange programme run jointly by VSO and the British Council. On September 15 I will be going for 3 months to Torfaen, Wales and then 3 months to the north-eastern region of India, Orissa. The aim of this programme is to create Active Global Citizens; that means that we have to start thinking of the world as a whole unit and not as a world that is divided by cultural or territorial barriers. It is up to us to take responsability for the problems and be pro-active.

The way this programme works is that it joins 9 young UK volunteers with 9 young host- country volunteers, in this case Indian volunteers. Together we will visit our Welsh host community and our Indian host community. We are not there to impose change or solve problems through large donations of money, instead the Global Exchange programme believes that improvement and the upkeep of sustainable projects is only possible through mutual education and cooperation. We go to different communities to communicate, learn and listen to their issues and work with them to bring about any change or help they may need.

Each exchange has a theme and my exchange focuses on Social Inclusion in particular the issues of HIV/AIDS awareness, disability and education. This is the running theme between both host communities. We will be living with families in each community as well as learning the language and hosting Community Action days every couple of weeks.

It costs VSO over £6,000 to take me on this project and in return I have been asked to raise at least £600 for the charity. I truly believe in this project; this is the first decision I have taken since I have left university and it is one I am passionate about. All I am asking from you is to please sponsor me and help me go on this project. So dig deep into your pockets and please donate what you can. This is a good cause and all of your money is going straight to VSO. My promise to you, the sponsor, is that I will give this project all my energy and focus, I really would like your help.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Voluntary Service Overseas gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now! Thank you! Thank you!