It is not uncommon for university students to take a year off from their studies to see the world beyond the halls of learning. Some people go to Europe or Asia while others take road trips across the continent or go tree-planting in the Interior.

But Alicia Coleman is putting the temporary brakes on her academic career to do something a little different.

The 20-year-old SFU student who graduated from Centennial secondary in 2006 is travelling to Africa to begin a year-long missionary internship. With an organization called Thrive Africa, she will work with children and families in a region of South Africa that has been ravaged by poverty and AIDS.

“[Thrive Africa] works to develop the leadership skills within the community,” Coleman said. “They give them opportunities to work on projects that meet the needs of their own people.”

The Coquitlam resident is a parishioner at the 10th Avenue Alliance Church in Vancouver and said Thrive Africa works to strengthen the church in South Africa. The organization works in AIDS prevention, pastoral development and youth camps.

Coleman will be living on a converted game farm, where the organization is based, but will also be visiting neighbouring communities for short-term mission trips. She will help with the day-to-day operation of an orphanage and school located on site.

“They welcome servant-hearted people to learn how to serve,” she said. “I wanted to dedicate time to serving people because I know that would really change me and grow my heart and grow my compassion and open my eyes to what I have here.”

In order to pay for her trip, Coleman needs to raise money by working and soliciting donations. Close to $8,000 is necessary for living and accommodation, $1,000 is needed for immunizations and health insurance is $1,000.

Thrive Africa also recommends that volunteers bring $1,300 in spending money, which is supposed to last the entire year. Coleman has been collecting cans and bottles to help raise the necessary funds.

She will leave for Africa in the new year and will return before Christmas in 2010. Those who wish to help her raise money for her trip can email alicia.elizabeth@live.ca.

gmckenna@tricitynews.com