Birthdays are an exciting occasion - they hold an opportunity to celebrate what one has achieved over the last 12 months, they provide an opportunity to catch up with loved friends and whānau, and it is an occasion to celebrate life. As I reach the near end of my late 20s (ek), I have realised that there is more to life than materialistic things. And, that there is this cool thing called 'giving back', which is rewarding for both the giver and receiver. This year I have decided to pledge my birthday to a local charity. So, instead of hooking a sister up with a present, may I ask that you spare a couple of dollars to donate toward a charity that has made an impact on my life? I have chosen Seed Waikato as my charity of choice because of the positive impact they have made for youth in the Waikato region. While I personally haven't been able to go to all their events this year, the workshops, events, and initiatives Seed Waikato have held, has benefited my current state, and the future of my region. I am excited to see what is to follow for this charity, hence my wish to support their cause. For those of you who have not yet heard of this charity, I have enclosed the following for you: “Seed Waikato is a movement of millennials who are redefining what it means to be young, here and now. They want to see millennials claim back their agency, and they do this by developing online education tools, by running inspiring events, and through building partnerships that upskill millennials so that they become great problem solvers, confident decision-makers, and informed voters. Seed Waikato wants to empower millennials to realise their true potential.” To those who wish to donate, I say thank you. You are a kick-arse human!