I was a late starter to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, starting my Gold Award whilst at university and initially worried I mightn’t fit in with younger members on my expedition. However, every sectional activity took me out of my comfort zone and helped me to grow in skills and confidence. Unbeknownst to me each activity would individually impact my future career path and I owe so much to my experience. After completing my expedition on Dartmoor, I found that the Award had left such a positive impact on my life, that I wanted to continue volunteering for the DofE as a Young Leader. I continue to gain great reward to this day seeing the next generation of young people attain great success and personal development from their own experiences.

I was proud to receive my Gold Award at Buckingham Palace in 2019, where I briefly spoke with Prince Edward, as the Duke had since retired from duties. Later that year I was privileged to be invited to speak on behalf of the DofE as a Young Ambassador at a Gold Award Presentation in St James' Palace. It proved an amazing opportunity and a real privilege to meet with dedicated volunteers and trustees like Tanni-Grey Thompson on the day, before I watched a great joy unfold, as Award Holders were presented with their certificates; both days I will cherish forever.

Deeply moved by the positive impact that the DofE has in the lives of young people across the country and the world, I moved my career trajectory into the charity sector and became an employee with the DofE. Today it is an honour to play a small part in a much larger collaborative effort to maintain the lasting legacy of HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and I send my sincere condolences to his family at this difficult time, may he rest in peace.