On 5 February 2009, youngsters from Birmingham will get the chance to go to a free music and recruitment event at Rainbow, Digbeth, hosted by Platform2, an overseas volunteering scheme for 18-25 year olds. The event from 7-9pm will feature a live set from rising stars Mexicolas.

Platform2, funded by the Department for International Development and run by Christian Aid, BUNAC and Islamic Relief, offers young people who would not normally be able to afford the opportunity to volunteer in South Africa, Ghana, Peru or India for 10 weeks free of charge.

At the event guests will have the chance to chat to Platform2 volunteers about living and working in a developing country. Interactive displays will showcase some of the activities applicants could experience such as teaching English in India, building latrines for a school in Peru, and working on a conservation site in South Africa.

When they return from their trip, volunteers will attend a 3-day workshop and go on to share their Platform2 experiences with their local community, friends and relatives through a variety of mediums including art, photography, music, poetry, blogs, journalism and film at events around the country. Raising awareness of the development issues faced by the countries they visited means volunteers will continue to make a difference by giving those communities a voice in the UK.

Platform2 not only allows participants to experience a new culture and make a real difference in a developing country, but also to make new and lasting friendships with other young people from across the UK.

Heather Warrilow, 23, from Sheldon, Birmingham:

‘It’s always been a dream of mine to volunteer abroad, but I never thought I could afford to go. Lots of people my age are stuck in their financial situations and very few break away to create something better for themselves. Platform2 gives you a chance to do something for a good cause, see a totally different part of the world and will help you to stand out from your peers when you start your career.’

Capacity at Rainbow is limited so please arrive early as spaces are allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Doors open at 19.00

PLATFORM 2 WITH MEXICOLAS
RAINBOW 160 HIGH STREET, DERITEND
5 FEBUARY 2009
DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM
19:00 - 21:00

For more information on Platform2, or to apply, visit www.myplatform2.com or call 0800 988 6828.