In May 2024, Tim joined a team of volunteers to fly to Malawi for the second time. They stayed for two weeks to help refurbish three school buildings, for over 300 local children, with the help of the Tongole Foundation Charity. 

The volunteers travelled in two retro Land Rovers on a challenging 90-minute commute, along rather slippery and treacherous mud tracks, from the lodge in Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve to the school.

With a 6am start each morning and numerous vehicle breakdowns, this was perhaps not the relaxing break Tim was hoping for but nevertheless it was, again, an amazing experience.  The volunteers all covered their own costs, donated clothes, and school equipment which they carried in their suitcases. They had also raised funds before the trip to pay for all the materials and offered up their rather questionable DIY skills free of charge. Financial Advisers tend to have rather soft hands – it seems they are not used to two weeks of manual labour!

“Malawi is one of the poorest countries in the World and spending time with the children with their infectious smiles, the locals, their characteristic Chiefs, and the staff in the Lodge made this a truly memorable experience.  I certainly hope to return in the future” - Tim Watts.