It has been two months since my Final Major Project (FMP) began. And I have done pretty much fuck all.
I am uninspired, unmotivated and restless being stuck in the UK. I mean, don’t get me wrong, the UK is great, and there are some amazing places to visit, but not for my artistic inspiration. I want stunning landscapes, exotic wildlife, conservation and something I am passionate about. Where is this… Africa.
So, after discussion with the therapist/best friend that is my father. I came to the conclusion, that the only way I will be happy, is if I follow my passions. I am going to Africa to volunteer for two weeks at Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. I found this fantastic place through the Born Free website, who are amazing advocates for the conservation of wildlife.
If you are thinking of going abroad to volunteer in Africa, please do your research. There are many places across Africa that offer volunteer places, or day visits to see the animals they have “rescued” or are “rehabilitating”. This is a lie. They are actually part of something called Canned Hunting (not for the faint hearted), where animals are forced to breed in captivity, reared by humans and are therefore unafraid of human presence, then hunted in small confined areas by trophy hunters. Unknowing visitors, who go to feed/pet lion cubs and other babies may think they are spending money to help save these animals, but intact are helping to fund a disgusting business. So please, please do your research before you go!
On a happier note, the place I am going to in Malawi does amazing work, and is affiliated with many well known world wide conservation companies. I am so freakin’ excited, I can barely contain it! My trousers (that conveniently convert in to shorts) arrived today, now I just need to start packing and organising things to take with me. Less than one week!!!!
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