Interview: Emma-Louise Forshaw

Thursday 11 June 2009

Emma-Louise Forshaw works for the London Borough of Lewisham and is set to do a parachute jump to raise money for NCB. This is the latest fundraising event for Emma, who at only 20 years old has a history of raising money to help children and young people.

In 2007, Emma was one of the stars of a documentary called Into the Big Wide World, which followed the progress of teenagers leaving care. The programme showed a small group of young people volunteering in the townships of South Africa and at an animal sanctuary in Limpopo, north of Johannesburg, as part of the South East London to South Africa project.

What motivates you to fundraise for children and young people, and for NCB in particular?
As a child, I was looked after by the London borough of Lewisham, where I now work, and I know how children and young people can sometimes miss out on the opportunities they need and deserve due to a lack of funding. That's the main reason I've become involved in fundraising for NCB.

Can you explain how your own experiences have influenced your decision to get involved in fundraising and charity work?
A few years ago, I volunteered on a project in South Africa. I went as part of a group and we had to raise all of the funding ourselves. On the trip I learnt that I was a bit of a natural at fundraising and that I really enjoyed it. I didn't want to put a good talent to waste.

How do you feel about doing the parachute jump?
I am so excited about taking part in the parachute jump. I have done one once before when I was raising money for the South Africa trip. I really enjoyed it that time and I know that I'll enjoy it again.

What message do you have for anyone who is interested in getting involved in raising money for charity?
I feel that I have achieved so much through volunteering my time and raising money for charity. It's not only a sense of pride and feeling great for doing something selfless; I have also gained invaluable experience. If people want to get involved in fundraising I have just two words for them: do it.