SHE’S a high-flying media executive working for one of the UK’s largest radio station groups.

But in just under five months time life is set to take on a whole new meaning for Anna Cajzner – as she prepares to swap her champagne lunch lifestyle for a year of dedicated volunteer work in Kenya.

Anna, 28, is trading south Manchester for Mombasa after signing up to work at the WEMA Centre – a community based rehabilitation programme designed to rescue young street children by providing access to education, healthcare and essential skills training.

And this is just the beginning of the journey for Anna – who lives on Atwood Road in Didsbury – as once her volunteer work is over she plans to change career paths and begin training as a social worker and counsellor.

Anna, who works for GCap Media – owners of Manchester’s XFM radio station and Classic FM – said: "Having worked for several years in the media industry, I have made a big decision to leave a successful career in search of something more meaningful.

"I have a lifestyle most women would dream of. I have a successful career, a beautiful flat, and a social life that would rival many. But at the end of each day I come home and feel empty.

"Our lives are so consumed with materialistic goals and self indulgence that we seem to ignore the bigger picture. So rather than doing what most of us do and ignore what is happening I have decided to get up, get out there and do something.

"The work that is being done at the WEMA Centre really appealed to me because it is such an inspiring project. It gives children a second chance at life and I want to be part of that."

During her time in Mombasa Anna will provide counselling to the young children at the WEMA Centre, as well as teaching them computer skills.

She said: "It’s a big move to make, but I have been travelling by myself before and I am quite a confident person so I’m looking forward to it. Some of my friends can’t believe what I am doing, but they know that once I have made my mind up about something that’s normally it."

To raise money for her Kenya trip, Anna is organising a lavish Masquerade Ball at the Renaissance Hotel in Manchester city centre on Saturday, September 27. The ball will feature champagne, canapes and performances from magicians, as well as a seven-piece brass jazz band, an auction and DJ.

The ball will be hosted by XFM breakfast presenter, Mike McClean and tickets cost £25. For more information visit www.manchester-masquerade.co.uk, or to sponsor Anna go to www.justgiving.com/annacajzner6.