Last year we provided water to Africa and helped change the lives of thousands. This year we want to help the Rohingya, often described as "the world's most persecuted minority". 

They have lived for centuries in Myanmar (Burma) but are not considered one of the country's 135 official ethnic groups and have been denied citizenship rendering them stateless. Their rights to study, work, travel, marry, practice their religion and access health services have been and continue to be restricted. They are unable to vote and limits are placed on them entering certain professions such as medicine, law or running for office.

In October 2016 a crackdown on villages where Rohingya lived ensued, during which government troops were accused of an array of human rights abuses including extrajudicial killing, rape and arson.Human Rights watch stated that Myanmar was conducting a campaign of ethnic cleansing against the Rohingya. The UN's special rapporteur to Myanmar said violence against the Rohingya bears the hallmarks of genocide.

Since the violence erupted more than 600,000 people have fled the violence. Most have walked for days, bringing with them harrowing stories of violence. Far from home and afraid for their lives, most are now dependent on aid for all their basic needs – food, water, shelter and medical care.

I have therefore decided to take on the challenge of trekking up Mount Everest base camp for Penny Appeals' Rohingya emergency. This 17 day journey will take place on 11-27 December 2018 and I am hoping to raise as much funds as possible to help hundreds of thousands of human beings in the Balukhali refugee camp in Cox's Bazaar, Bangladesh. The camp is home to 500, 000 men, women and children who desperately need your help. Please donate as much as you can and let them know we care. 

The cost of the travel is being covered by Penny Appeal and my deposit contribution. Therefore, every penny donated will be spent providing aid to the Rohingya refugees. Please be aware that your donations are zakat eligible. 

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