50 years ago I was lucky to take school for granted. It was something we all had to do and we didn't really appreciate how fortunate we were.

Now I'm humbled by the fact that not only did I grow up with tuition-free education but I'm approaching 60, still standing and ready to rock and roll. If you were thinking of getting me a birthday present, please don't spend your money on anything but a donation to Camfed.

Camfed envisions a world in which every child is educated, protected, respected and valued, and grows up to turn the tide of poverty.

As the most effective strategy to tackle poverty and inequality, Camfed multiplies educational opportunities for girls and empowers young women to become leaders of change.

Their focus is on girls and young women in rural areas of sub-Saharan Africa. This is where girls face acute disadvantage and where their empowerment will have a transformative impact.