During my 7 weeks on expedition I will work on some of the most challenging issues in development. Some of these sustainable projects include tackling environmental issues, increasing access to education and alleviating poverty. I will be working in a rural area of Nepal, as these areas tend to have less access to basic services, lower education levels and a poorer standard of living than those in urban areas. This will not be a holiday of any sorts. I will be living in similar conditions to the local community, with a fresh food budget to buy local food and cook my own meals each day. 

My work over the 7 weeks will include improving facilities and influencing new behaviours that will support communities in the future. I will work with schools and community groups to create awareness about the importance of hand-washing and safe water; build water tanks, toilet blocks and hand-washing stations; help improve access to education building schools in indigenous areas. 

Nepal is among the poorest countries in the world and the second poorest country in Asia, with 23.8% of its people living below the poverty line. Inequality remains a major challenge; only 6% of women are in formal employment, and only 10% of working women receive payment for their work. The poorest are also most at risk to climate change and natural hazards – Nepal is the fourth most climate vulnerable country in the world.

What will your donation go towards?

Raleigh International is a youth-driven sustainable development charity that inspires communities and young people around the world to create lasting change. Its programmes focus on providing access to safe water and sanitation, protecting vulnerable environments, creating sustainable livelihoods, building resilient communities and ensuring young people are connected and valued partners in development.