Platform2, the youth volunteering scheme, is now well under way as people from Wales sign up for a life changing experience.
Organised by Christian Aid, BUNAC and Islamic Relief, the three-year scheme funded by the Department for International Development will enable 2,500 young people aged 18-25 to experience the realities of overseas development work in countries such as Ghana, South Africa, Peru, India and Malawi.
Raising awareness
The scheme aims to raise awareness of global development amongst young British adults who would not normally be able to afford the opportunity to volunteer overseas.
On their return to the UK, participants will attend a three day residential workshop where they will design personal activity plans to share their experiences and raise awareness of development issues within their own communities.
Unlocking potential
‘This is an amazing opportunity for young people to go out there and make a difference, not only in the communities where they will work, but also in their own lives,’ said Aled Pickard from Christian Aid in Cardiff.
‘These experiences will stay with them forever and hopefully, through learning about new cultures and developing new skills, they will return as better global citizens.’
Journey begins
Several people from Wales have already completed their Platform2 journey. Meic Parry from Cardiff, for example, travelled to Peru as part of his Platform2 experience.
Listen to a radio interview with Meic Parry in Welsh just before he left for Peru
For more information on Platform2, or to apply, visit www.myplatform2.com.