Hello, my name is Aiden, I’m 36 and from Newtownards. I am currently trying to raise funds for a mission trip to Malawi in August with Vision International Ministries, Reg Charity no 106627.

I am taking on the frightful challenge of abseiling down The Europa Hotel in Belfast City Centre. If you fancy joining me and taking on this challenge I would be delighted so just contact me for a sponsor sheet and more info!

Any money raised will go to help toward the All new VIM Football and Bible camp week running for the children of Mtakataka, Malawi.

Myself and a few other local boys from Newtownards shall be leading the football camp and assisting with the bible teaching for at least 200 children (Im quite sure a lot more ). The week will consist of football training in the morning, bible teaching and a lot of fun, laughter and worship in the afternoons along with daily feeding. The end of the week will bring a football tournament and then the new VIM under 12's football team and of course a BIG PARTY!!!

After the camp I shall be staying on with The LIFT team who I went to Malawi with last year. There will be a team of us all from Northern Ireland working on building student accomadation at VIM's Olive Grace Academy Secondary School as its in desperate need in order to house students as they come from afar. I really can't wait to work alongside the local people in this area and Im so thankful to God for opening these doors, I give God all the Glory.

Whilst in Malawi, we shall be in Mtakatata Village in the Dedza Regions. Vision Ministries have been working in this area for 20 years showing the people God's love in practical ways. They have 4 Schools with over 2000 students attending across them.

Nadazi Primary School, Nadzi

Emily Garrett Village Project consisting of a Primary School and Grace Community Church @ Chikombe, this is extremely rural area 2 hours into the bush

Peacehaven Pre school, Day Care & Primary School, Mtakatata

Olive Grace Academy Secondary School, Ngozi

VIM run a feeding programme with approx 150 children many of who are orphans attending the programme. These children gather together for feeding & games several times a week an to a special Sunday school service to worship and listen to bible stories ran by Pastor Issac who makes the2 hour journey in from Grace Church every week!

A bit about me

My whole life was a struggle with addiction, poor mental health, and feeling lost with no real purpose or direction. I always hoped one day things would change, but I never truly believed they would. I tried to change my ways many times, but I couldn’t. I was searching for peace and happiness in all the wrong places, but nothing ever filled the emptiness inside me.

Just over 2 years ago, everything changed when I gave my life to Jesus Christ. Jesus saved me from the dark path I was on and completely transformed my life. Through His love, grace, and forgiveness, He pulled me out of darkness and gave me a new beginning. Where there was once hopelessness, God gave me peace and purpose.

Last year, God opened the door for me to travel to Africa to help serve local communities through building projects. It was an experience that strengthened my faith and showed me what it means to truly serve others.

This year, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to go back again. I’ll be helping assist with a football camp, continuing building work, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others. I want people to know that no matter how broken or lost you feel, Jesus can completely change your life, because He changed mine.

I’m so thankful for the new life God has given me and for everyone supporting this mission and making this journey possible.

Thank you for for all your encouragement, supports and prayers.

Aiden