In April I’ll be going to Uganda for three months with Restless Development International Citizen Service which is a government funded overseas scheme.

The work Restless Development do in Uganda is invaluable in helping the youth population of the country. Firstly they help young people build sustainable livelihoods to avoid mass unemployment. Secondly they empower the youth to make improved decisions regarding their sexual health and reproductive planning especially in preventing the spread of HIV. Currently they’ve held over 10,000 sessions on sexual health.

Whilst out there I’ll be working within the communities of Eastern Uganda to hopefully create an impact in behaviour change, increased incomes, decreased HIV rates and better access to youth friendly services.  My group and I will be running sexual health workshops with music and dance to promote HIV awareness. We will also be supporting students to set up youth clubs which can teach them to address issues in their community by organising computer skills sessions and lobbying politicians and leaders. Restless Development gives career advice to Ugandan students including CV writing sessions and exploring different career opportunities with them. Finally we will be conducting research through focus groups and then designing a manual to support future work in communities. Everything we will be doing out there is sustainable for the long term in giving the youth the stability that they need and provide great opportunities that can be built upon for the next batch of volunteers helping the community.

I’m really excited about the idea of working with other young people and hopefully giving the Ugandan youth a louder voice in the country’s development.

I’m aware it will be seriously tough at times and a departure from my North London bubble without the comforts of going to the pub, Grey’s anatomy or regular electricity but is a unique opportunity which I’m so lucky to be a part of.

Please help me fundraise on behalf of Restless Development! This scheme is funded by the Department for International Development (DFID) so all my accommodation, travel and basic living costs are covered by the government when out in Uganda. All money donated will go directly to the charity which is committed to educating and supporting young people who are the most vulnerable group in developing countries and so all money raised goes to the various projects on the ground. All your money will go towards ensuring their work with the youth of East Africa carries on in helping young adults find jobs and prevent the spread of HIV. Your contribution will make a lasting different to the local youth of Uganda. Definitely a great cause!