A STUDENT from Bolton will be championing the rights of disabled people in one of the world’s poorest communities.

Shawana Badat has left for Mali after being accepted on to the International Citizen Service (ICS) scheme, a new Government volunteering opportunity for young people.

The 22-year-old University of Manchester student, who lives in Wigan Road, Bolton, will spend three months volunteering with young people on a project designed to develop some of the world’s poorest communities, particularly by ensuring disabled people’s rights are understood.

The former Turton School pupil is currently reading a Masters in International Political Economy says her experiences in Mali will help her career in international development.

She said: “I’m really excited. This is a great opportunity and could be a life-changing experience for me.

“I decided to volunteer with International Citizen Service so I can work on real development projects that will make a genuine difference to the lives of some of the world’s poorest people.

“And I hope to develop new skills which will help in building my own future.” The scheme is largely funded by the Government.

People with lower incomes can take part for free, while those who can afford to are asked to pay some of the costs.

Development Secretary Andrew Mitchell said: “International Citizen Service volunteers like Shawana will learn first-hand about the challenges faced by very poor communities in developing countries, and how their lives can be improved.

“By making this contribution these volunteers will show what a difference one person can make in the world.

I’m sure they will return from their experience full of enthusiasm for helping others, and with an understanding and appreciation of the results development can bring.”

To apply for a threemonth ICS volunteering placement leaving in January or April next year, visit face book.com/ics or dfid.gov.uk/ ics.