A FORMER Bridgewater High School pupil is braving the heat after arriving in Zambia to support a project tackling poverty through business and entrepreneurship.

Walton resident Lydia Taylor, aged 22, travelled to the south-central African country on January 23, where she met up with other volunteers, who will also be working on the 10-week development programme.

The project, which assists entrepreneurs and small businesses in the community, is part of the UK Government funded scheme, International Citizen Service.

After completing her business management degree at the University of Dundee last year, Lydia believes the skills learned during her studies will play a pivotal part during her stay overseas.

"I've been fundraising over the past 2 months and by doing this it is a way of making sure that developing countries can continue to benefit from the work of future volunteers," she said.

"I'll be using the skills gained from my undergraduate degree to work with local Zambian entrepreneurs to enable a sustainable future for their businesses.

"This is a unique opportunity to work alongside businesses who have requested help from young volunteers to make a difference where it is needed most.

"I'm really excited to get out here and help fight poverty through business."

Lydia, who is no stranger to travelling across the globe following visits to the USA, Spain and Turkey, has already exceeded her £800 target after hitting the £815 mark but is hoping to raise even more money to help the community.

She will be carrying out various activities during the trip which can be tracked at her JustGiving page.

For further information on Lydia's fundraising journey visit www.justgiving.com/Lydia-Taylor.