Imagine you are born in a tiny village in the middle of Ghana, where your parents constantly struggle to afford decent food, water is limited, and travelling the world seems like a blessing you will never experience. Everything foreign amazes you: massive planes, exotic foods, amusement parks, and computers at school. Sooner or later, you forget about dreaming and return to reality. But what is reality, and why is it different for everyone?
People in the UK have constant access to clean water and a wide variety of food. We see planes every day and fly on holidays a couple of times a year. There are no power cuts, and people drive expensive cars. But do people realise the pollution caused by traffic? Taking a bus is not as glamorous as owning a powerful Porsche, and the environment may not change because of one person’s actions. So why would anyone give up the privilege of luxury?
Travelling sustainably for me is not only about reducing my carbon footprint or taking the train to the airport, but about exploring remote parts of the world to understand differences and seek change. Visiting children in remote schools, supporting local projects that address hunger, promoting education, and consuming responsibly are my main goals. At the same time, I take direct flights to reduce carbon emissions, use reusable water bottles, and avoid fast fashion. I travel sustainably because it reflects my values and allows me to contribute to better causes without overconsuming.
I was born and raised in Ukraine, where I experienced poverty, inequality, and limited access to resources. I strongly oppose war, having suffered from it and left my hometown at 17. It is important for me to share my journey with other young people, encouraging them to work hard and believe in themselves. Only by taking small steps can we make the world a better place. One person cannot change the system, but one can spread ideas of support, justice, and positive impact.
This summer I have the opportunity to go to Ghana for four weeks as part of a summer school. I will volunteer in multiple schools. I have not prepared lectures; instead, I plan to work with children and speak to them as equals about what truly matters. I will also buy stationery and donate some of my funds to support communities with limited resources. The scholarship will allow me to give more to society. These actions align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education (SDG 4), Responsible Consumption (SDG 12), and Climate Action (SDG 13).
