Over the last 17 years I have watched my dad take the time out of his own busy, working life, to travel to some of South Africa's poorest communities to help improve the lives of others. 

In 2004 he became involved with The Irish Township Charity to improve housing standards in townships across Cape Town. As the charity moved from housing to education, so did my dad. Mellon Educate' mission is to "bring literacy to 100,000 children across Africa while at the same time providing employment to school leavers in the community." Over the last 10 years, the charity has built/renovated 36 schools, providing improved education for 50,000 children. 

My dad has travelled 12 times to take part in the charity's annual building blitz, which involves raising £4,000 to fly to Cape Town for 10 days, to build, extend, or improve existing schools. 

This November, as part of my commitment to my Duke of Edinburgh award, I've committed to raising £4,000 to join my dad and take part in this exciting, challenging and rewarding initiative and am asking for your help to achieve this. 

For more information please see melloneducate.com