Mia Simpson on her way to Malawi

Seventeen-year-old Mia Simpson will be embarking on a year long voyage to Malawi where she will be working as a primary teacher.

For Mia, an S6 pupil at Holy Cross High School in Hamilton, it was an opportunity that she could not turn down.

She said: “It’s going to be a great life experience and I can’t wait to go.

“I’m still unsure about exactly what I will be doing as I will either be going to a primary school or an orphanage.

“I first heard of the project from a girl who went to a drama class that I attended. She is out in South Africa at the moment.

“I took a look on Facebook and made up my mind that I wanted to go for it.

“My parents (Elaine and Kenny) have been really supportive; they were a bit concerned at the start but they’ve been great.

“My brother Caine is at university but he has also helped me and told me to go for it.”