My name is Ella Kenward and I am in my second year at Cardiff University studying Optometry. Following an interview process, I am thrilled to have been selected as a member of the Malawi, Sub-Saharan African Outreach 2026 team.

Alongside 12 other undergraduate students, I will be travelling to Malawi for 2 weeks to provide free eye care and health promotion to rural and underserved communities. I have been appointed the Treasurer, in which I will be responsible for the team's budget whilst we are overseas.

For over 25 years, Cardiff University's School of Optometry has had a long-standing partnership with Malawi's eye heath service. The initiative is led by specialist optometrist and teaching associate Pete Hong, alongside lecturer and clinical advisor Sharon Beatty. Under their professional supervision, we will be performing screening clinics in schools, churches, orphanages and village halls. Our work will include: detecting sight-threatening conditions, referring patients for essential surgical treatment and providing prescription glasses following refraction tests- something many of us take for granted.

We will also be training alongside Malawian optometrists as well as observing surgical procedure in the Lions Sight First Eye Hospital in Blantyre, a major city in Malawi.

Please note that the money I raise will help cover my flights to Malawi, required vaccinations and essential documents. By supporting me, you are directly enabling me to use my skills to help individuals who have little or no access to eye care. I believe this experience will strengthen my clinical skills, cultural awareness and adaptability, thus helping me become a caring and empathetic optometrist.

We have also set up a group GoFundMe page, which will cover the cost of equipment, spectacles and various surgical treatment/management options including: medications, corneal cross-linking surgeries and cataract surgeries (which costs just £30 in Malawi). In addition, any spare or secondhand glasses that are not in use can be donated and recycled to Malawians. We will also be bringing toys and clothing to donate to children in the orphanage we visit, helping us make a lasting and positive impact beyond our clinical work.

Please find the go fund me page here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/cardiff-optometry-malawi-outreach-2026?attribution_id=sl:b2c282e8-286f-4ee1-9619-f1849a3c5d8c&lang=en_GB&ts=1771529287&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&utm_content=link_in_bio.

We have also set up an Instagram account @cardiffoptomoutreach2026 shall you wish to follow our progress.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am beyond thankful for any support. Every donation- no matter how big or small makes a real difference and is greatly appreciated!