For me, it's about giving back, and what better way to do it than through education, perhaps the most important gift we can pass on to the next generation? I am traveling to Cambodia again in September to volunteer within the community in Chanleas Dai.

During our time in Cambodia we will be working to improve the school facilities, many of which continue to lie in a dilapidated shape since the Khymer Rouge era. In addition we will run basic arts and crafts activities, fungroups and learning excercises, all of which we hope will encourage the kids to stay in school beyond 7th grade.

I realise not everyone can step out of their daily routines and travel to Cambodia to help, but there are many ways you can also get involved.

All private donations to PEPY are allocated to programme costs, local staff salaries and community development programmes, meaning every dollar you give goes directly to education, health and environmental projects. This is vital as the government only allocates $1.35 per child per year, therefore working within the community to improve education is vital if these children are to have any hope of a brighter future.

Ten dirhams, ten dollars or ten pounds goes a long way in Cambodia and I can assure you, your donation goes straight to the NGO working in the community.