A performing arts graduate is to spend three months in Bangladesh helping young women combat physical and sexual abuse.

Stephanie Dixon, 23, a former pupil of Aireville School, Skipton, and two other post graduate students at King Alfred's College, Winchester, will help run the project in Chulna.

They have been invited to take on the work by Dr Nazmul Ahsan, chairman of a Bangladesh cultural non-government agency, who met the three women when he lectured at the college last year.

"He later e-mailed us about the project he wanted to organise working with young women and asked if we could help," said Stephanie.

"We thought it was a great idea and one which we could get involved with for our MAs.

"We will be working with 14 groups of young women who are all at risk from abuse, either sexual, physical and emotional."

Stephanie's undergraduate course involved training in developing self-confidence and self-awareness. She said she hoped to use those skills to help women have the confidence to express themselves.

"We understand there are certain things that are not acceptable in Bangladesh and we will be conscious of being sensitive to the culture," she added.

Her two colleagues are Caroline Tiza, a 23-year-old Zambian, and Marianna Tatetanopoulou from Greece.

Stephanie is studying for an MA in theatre development having gained a degree in Drama, Theatre, Television and Film.

She is now seeking help to raise funds to pay for the flight. She is due to leave on February 24 and returning on June 2. Food and accommodation will be provided for her while she is working at the project.

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