When I first started in Bronze, I didn't think much about volunteering, but then, I realized that there was so much more to volunteering, that you can help others and shape your own opportunities. I began becoming a peer mentor and now a Welcome Leader at Simon Fraser University 10 times running.

I was inspired by how much impact I made on people's lives and those of new students.

In Bronze and Silver, my passive skill was to work on leadership skills. It's when I went to Gold when I started to find my own skill to work on, canvas painting.

The Award also led me to Dragon Boat. I have never done the sport in my life, but once I got on the water with my team, it felt awesome. I also swam and forced myself to do personal training. I'm working on it, haha. I thought I would never do it.

Duke of Ed camp was different. You had to plan your meals, how long were your hikes, how to set up tents, make food on a stovetop, bring canned food, carry a HUGE backpack, find out what walking poles are for. And, no, they aren't for old people.

Camp was the most valuable part of my journey. Independence is a huge step for such as cooking for myself and others, learning something as trivial as opening a can of soup, washing dishes, things to pack for a trip, and meal planning.

I became more willing to volunteer, get out more, become more independent and confident.

The experiences I gained made me who I am today. Those experiences helped me realize that I did make a difference in people's lives.

I want to thank the Duke for this amazing program that he created. May he rest in peace.

Thank you, Prince Philip. I hope to complete Gold in honour of your amazing legacy.