HILLINGDON youngsters have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take part in a six-month community scheme, which includes volunteering in Zambia.

Global Xchange, an international youth and development programme, is looking for 10 young people aged 18-22 to launch the project in April.

They will spend 12 weeks in Zambia, learning invaluable life skills, including team work, budget magagement and language skills.

The group will then spend 12 weeks volunteering in their own community, along with Zambian youngsters. The groups will live and learn together.

Organisers say this is a great chance to make a difference in the lives of people in both communities.

It is hoped that, by recruiting the English volunteers locally, there will be a greater impact as they are making a difference on their own doorstep.

Global Xchange is working directly with the UK Department for International Development and is part of the pilot year of International Citizen Service.

The programme is largly funded by corporate sponsors GlaxoSmithKline, BAA at Heathrow Airport (via the Heathrow Community Fund) and British Airways.

Volunteers will also be asked to make a means-tested contribution, based on household income.

To apply visit www.globalxchange.org.uk or call Global Xchange 020 87807500