Year 10 pupil gains coveted place on an adventure of a lifetime

Year 10 pupil Emily will have the experience of a lifetime after successfully securing a coveted place to go to Malawi next year.

Emily has been a member of 5th Penwortham Scouts since she was five-years-old. She saw an advertisement on Facebook for the chance to go to Malawi in July/August 2025 as part of a contingent of West Lancs Scouts in aid of the charity Friends of Mulanje Orphans (FOMO).

“We had to attend a selection day where there were 70 applicants for 30 places,” said Emily.

“It was tough as there was an interview and then a number of team-building exercises”

“I was waiting for the email for a week and then it said I was in and I couldn’t believe it, I can’t tell you how excited I was.”

“My brother had gone to Switzerland previously for the International Jamboree and so I was looking for a chance to go abroad with Scouts and this will be amazing.

“We are going to support FOMO and staying in Malanje where we will work across multiple different centres - refurbishing the buildings, taking part in different projects and cooking food, which we have to buy from the market. I am slightly worried as there will be no cheese!

“We will also have a few days to do our own things, such as go on a safari or climb the local mountain.

“We have to raise £500 for the charity so I am going to sell some of my artwork at my scout church, do a garage sale, sell things at car boot sale, a sponsored walk and bake sales. Scouts will also support us with fundraising ideas. 

“I am beyond excited. I like Drama and can sing and play the ukulele so I can entertain everyone too!”