“Working with Others” to tackle malaria at Blackburn College

Every year the inspiring young students of Pre-Teaching course at Blackburn College take up a charity as part of their ‘Working with Others” module to raise the profile of a social concern. Last month I had the pleasure of meeting some of the students to talk about the possibility of organising youth-led events and bring the issue of malaria, an epidemic that has killed millions around the world, closer to home. They have previously raised money for Comic Relief, The Big Read, Children in Need and set up stalls for the Fair Trade Fortnight. This year’s students have decided to support the Faiths Act campaign as it encourages people from diverse backgrounds to work together in the global fight against malaria.

Tutor, Alex Kay, who teaches the ‘Working with Others’ module said,

“Fundraising for a charity gives the students a sense of the world that is bigger than their daily lives. It helps them understand that with time and effort they have the power to influence their surroundings and the larger situation.”

On 11th January 2010, we organised a training event to further develop the creative ideas of the students. As a result, from February until April 2010, these young people will launch a multi-faceted campaign of their own which will be aimed at Blackburn University, Blackburn College and Sixth Form.  During the weeks leading up to World Malaria Day (25^th April) we can expect everything from an edited video of Barak Obama swatting a fly to give a malaria-themed message, to a sponsored leg wax for a teacher in the school hall! These young people are utilizing all their artistic, IT and persuasion skills to raise awareness and funds for malaria.

What is particularly inspirational about these students is the motivation behind their commitment to this campaign. One student said that she wants to do this because she knows that she has more blessings in this country compared to others abroad and therefore she want to help them. Others motivations lie in seeing positive result of their actions. I left the session being completely moved by the passion and enthusiasm by which these exceptional young people want to make a positive difference in the lives of others.  

Ushna Mughal