DofE was a life changing experience for me, it pushed boundaries I didn’t even know I had. I still get flashbacks, even three years after achieving my Gold. I remember the rain, the snow, the gut retching thought at 4.30 in the afternoon that there’s still another 5 miles to go! But the sense of achievement made it all worth it.

I am very grateful for all that I’ve been through and the friendships that I made along the way. DofE, most importantly, gave me purpose throughout my teenage years as I struggled, being autistic, to create bonds and friendships. I was pushed through by this scheme to keep up my activities and keep learning new skills.

I have learned lots along the way, including mastering the accordion, which I still love to play today. I have learned how to coach swimming and motivate younger children as a teacher.

I also hosted a DofE ceremony in my own community of Dumfries and Galloway, which gave me confidence as I faced fears of standing up on stage, presenting, being myself, rather than acting a part, which is my passion.

I am proud of all that I achieved, shaping where I am today, as a young adult studying acting, with belief that I can achieve my goals.

A particularly beautiful memory for me was coming out of my tent for the toilet one night, while everyone asleep, I look up to the sky and saw all the stars. I felt peaceful, it was something I’d never seen before, just nothing but stars and the moon. I felt very happy to be there at that moment.

I hope that I have also made Catherine McNay, our DofE leader proud as she got me through all three levels and was always there for me when I was at my lowest.

I feel very privileged to have been through this scheme and hope it has a long and healthy future!