After wanting to volunteer abroad for quite some time now, I've finally decided to jump at the chance and will be heading off to Zambia, Livingstone on the 3rd of July 2023 for 4 weeks. I will be assisting the local early childhood facilities within Livingstone by helping to provide essential care, individual attention, education and development support that are crucial to helping these children build better futures for themselves and their families. Typical tasks will include mentoring, helping children to compelete homework, preparing meals, arranging activities and so much more. 

Zambia is a country with a population of 19.47 million and remains as one of the least developed countries in Africa. In particular, the district of Livingstone to this day, has a number of development gaps such as inadequate provision of social services, high poverty levels, unemployment and degradation of the environment and natural resources. As a result, any extra money raised through this fundraising page will be donated to the local communities within and surrounding Livingstone, which I will personally distribute to the facilities to better aid their causes. 

As a solo traveller, I was apprehensive about taking on an opportunity like this, but it is something that I feel strongly passionate about and I truly cannot wait to immerse myself within the different cultures and gain a deeper perspective of what life looks like for those who are not as fortunate as those of us living in more established and developed countries. I also cannot wait to interact with the young children and hope to make a positive impact in their education and futures that lie ahead. 

I am currently a psychology student in my second year of university and will therefore be travelling to Zambia during my time off over the summer months. I have always loved working and interacting with young children which has led to a particular interest in child psychology and how their individual experiences and relationships can imapct their development across the lifespan and how child development can be facilitated in the best ways possible. As a result, I feel that this opportunity will provide me with the necedsary skill assets which are essential for potentially pursuing a career working with children and will deepen my perspective and govern my cultural awareness. 

I truly cannot wait to immerse myself in this opportunity and look forward to sharing my experiences with others! Thank you to all of you in advance who decide to donate, I cannot thank you enough and will be sure to keep you updated along the way :))