A FORMER head boy at Milford Haven School will be living in the Amazonian rainforest for the next three months, as part of a project helping children and young people access education.

Eighteen-year-old Harry Turner, from Herbrandston, has flown to Bolivia to volunteer with British charity International Service.

Harry, who recently completed his A Levels and hopes to pursue a career in medicine, will be living in the Yungas region of the Amazonian rainforest, but will be working in the small Afro-Bolivian village of Coscoma.

“My project focuses on Afro-Bolivians, a heavily marginalised ethnic minority who were brought to Bolivia as slaves, being liberated only 63 years ago,” said Harry.

“They are still suffering as a consequence, with racism and discrimination directed towards themselves and their children.

“Our aim is to provide these children with an establishment which they can access easily and freely, giving them a place where they feel safe, and where we and future volunteers can hold educational workshops to improve their standard of life.”

As part of the first group to work in the area, Harry will help build a base, where young people can learn about difficult topics such as sexual health and learn skills that will help them gain employment.

Speaking before he left for Bolivia, Harry said he was excited to get started.

“I can't wait to get out there and really make a difference to some seriously disadvantaged people and leave a lasting impact on their community.”

In order to take part in the project, Harry had to raise £800, which he raised through a variety of ‘odd jobs’ and fundraising activities.

He will be keeping a blog and video diary of his travels.