Temwa is a Bristol-based charity that supports communities in Malawi, Africa, improving health education, agriculture and building and supporting schools.

It all began in 2000 when Jo Hook and Sophie Elson returned from Malawi determined to do something to help people there cope with the hardships they faced, mainly the impact of HIV and AIDS. After significant research, the girls began a three-year fundraising programme to raise awareness and funds to begin their first project.

They regularly hold events, mainly in Bristol, which include club nights, street art exhibitions, sponsored events and pub quizzes – anything they think will raise money and help the cause.

This year saw Temwa releasing their first fundraising compilation CD, ‘TemPlates Volume 1: This is Bristol’ – a slice of Bristol’s musical culture and a testament to the energy and commitment of the local scene to have a positive effect on peoples’ lives beyond the city limits. Temwa UK manager, Jo Hook said; “Bristol is an amazing, wonderful, musical city, with a very warm and generous heart and many talented citizens. This album proves it”.

When asked what Bristol had to offer Temwa, she said; “A lot!!! The community in Bristol has been exceptionally supportive; so many musicians, artists and businesses showing support and continuing to. The Bristol public are wonderful and have really helped support the fundraising activities, there are numerous volunteers that have come from Bristol and continue to help us. Temwa would not be under-taking the work it is if it were not for the amazing people in this city helping sustain Temwa’s fundraising efforts.”

You can show your support for Temwa by simply attending one of their many fundraisers or buying a copy of Temwa’s CD.

For full details: www.temwa.org

Becky Midgley