A BARNSLEY College student selflessly travelled to the Middle East on her 16th birthday to support families living in refugee camps.

Ayaana Musa decided to give back on the milestone birthday by taking part in a special mission to Jordan.

The Mission Possible initiative enables volunteers to fundraise and travel overseas to hand-deliver aid, supporting vulnerable communities and providing essential supplies to those who need them most.

Ayaana helped raise funds and supported the delivery of food and hygiene packages to displaced families in the region.

She said: “I wanted to do something meaningful to mark my 16th birthday.

“Instead of celebrating in the usual way, I wanted to give back and make a real difference in people’s lives.

“When I learned about the opportunity to support refugees in Jordan, I felt it was something I couldn’t pass up.

“Seeing how difficult life can be for families in refugee camps made me realise how fortunate I am.

“It made me want to help in any way I could and not take what I have for granted.

“I was most looking forward to making a small but meaningful difference.”

To fund the trip, Ayaana raised money through donations from family and friends and by sharing her campaign on social media.

Supporters were encouraged to contribute by learning how the funds would directly benefit families in need.

Ayaana added: “The encouragement and generosity from people around me meant so much.

“Experiences like this develop empathy, resilience, teamwork and gratitude.

“It also builds confidence and leadership skills, especially when working in new environments.

“Most importantly, it teaches you the value of helping others and being aware of the wider world.”