Hi everyone, a little about myself. I'm married with 2 teenage kids, and a black labrador. As a family we've been following the progress of this community for years.

 

I’ve worked in international development for over 25 years mostly, in Africa and Asia, for various UK based charities and the UK Government. My background is in engineering and public health – which is about water, sanitation and tackling health issues in developing countries, but in the later years I’ve been involved in monitoring and evaluating the impact of development work. This has led me to question the whole system of international development where I’ve witnessed a lot of money go a little way and by the time  government, middle-men organisations  and other big contractors are paid off there’s actually virtually nothing that gets to the people that need it the most, the reason for international development i.e the poor and excluded people. We started this tiny organisation to really see what a direct difference the money is making to this community’s lives. I personally get a lot more from engaging with this group, so far away … than I can ever give. The warmth, humour, resilience and the way they tackle their own hardships humbles me and makes me put into perspective the inconveniences of every day life here. I am ever grateful to my dear friends at the Peacehaven Evangelical Church who introduced me to this community when I was in India and have since supported them in any way they can each year.