Scott Wilson

Scott Wilson, 21, from Scotland, recently volunteered with BPF Malawi’s team for six weeks, staying at the NGO’s rural Lilongwe community centre. In addition to raising over £1,000 for BPF, here’s what Scott had to say about his time in Malawi…

“My introduction to Bhubesi Pride Foundation came through a Voice of Rugby Dinner, hosted by The Bill McLaren Foundation in Edinburgh. At the event, [BPF Malawi’s executive director] Nohara Chinguwo spoke about BPF’s valuable work, on stage with former Scotland national rugby team captain, Rory Lawson. From this, connections were made with [BPF’s founder] Richard Bennett and, after discussions, I was given the opportunity to spend six weeks volunteering at BPF Malawi’s community centre in Lilongwe.

I had no hesitation in traveling half-way around the world to put my energy, enthusiasm and skills to use in whatever way they were most useful. During my visit, I:

• coached youth sports
• outreached to primary schools, visiting homes and communities
• helped to write itineraries for community centre guests
• delivered a sports development program on coaching ethos
• undertook training in special olympics as a unified coach
• produced a promotional video (highlighting BPF’s work and to support grant applications) – scroll down to watch
• co-planned and delivered a touch rugby tournament for 130 mixed ability young people
• joined in with community skills courses such as permaculture training

What a powerful time I’ve had. I have seen that the world can be a challenging place. However, good people – especially those willing to work hard – can make a monumental difference. A large part of BPF’s work is to give young people life skills in confidence and gender equality. This – as well as up-skilling teachers to provide them with qualifications and life skills themselves – is having a real impact on the wider community. Learned behaviours are hard to overcome… but they can be. Mindsets can be updated with the right teachers – which BPF has in spades. I am so inspired by the work being done by BPF and by the people involved.

The whole BPF team is fantastic. I have made lifelong friends and I’ve met people who have influenced me in a hugely positive way. I was immersed into the culture and I saw a true representation of the life Malawians live every day. I will never forget this experience. I ate well and slept well. Less WiFi, more reading and wholesome conversations. Fitness sessions were back to basics. I’ve left stronger – physically and mentally – ready to return to my rugby program and my studies.

Thank you BPF.”