As an agency, we choose to work in the sectors that make the world a better place – charity, health and education. Of course, there are some parts of the world where health, food and education are a far more urgent, critical and ‘real’ need than a brand or a website – something that I discovered on a life-changing visit to some of the most poverty-stricken communities of Zambia back in 2011.

I met amazing, inspiring people and the trip will stay with me for the rest of my life. In leaving, I was given the challenge: ‘Don’t waste this experience.’ I wrote that challenge on a Zambian banknote and it is one I am determined to meet. I keep that note in my wallet as a daily reminder. I’ve since returned to Africa a number of times and have also become a director of Hands at Work, a charity working with the ‘poorest of the poor’ communities in eight Sub-Saharan countries.

Using a child sponsorship model, Hands at Work enables a community to care for the most vulnerable children in their own village by providing education, food and basic healthcare.

Hands at Work also trains, supports and befriends care workers, allowing them to remain alongside these children long-term. Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for the problems poverty causes. But the regular support and guidance we provide make a dramatic difference.

The UK supporters of Hands at Work currently feed 495 children daily in six communities in Zambia, South Africa and Swaziland. Currently, we have regular support for only 300 of those children. It is terribly challenging to meet the genuine need on the ground. Hands UK are also committed to increasing our regular support to 900 children every day within the next two years.

It only costs 50p a day (£15 / month) to feed a child, enable a child to attend school, provide basic healthcare. Each new direct debit allows us to feed and support one more child in these communities.