The DofE for me began at school when I was told I was able to do the awards. Being Deaf myself often brought many barriers, but being able to do the awards with my Deaf peers made it 100% more inclusive. I have many amazing memories of my Bronze and Gold award, some being doing my expedition when coming across a field full of bulls which was scary at the time! To climbing mount Snowdon. Then doing my gold expedition canoeing on the river Thames! Amazing residential sailing overseas on a tall ship!
After picking up my Gold Award at St James Palace, I didn’t want this to end for me nor end for other Deaf young people who clearly are missing out. So working with my employer/charity where I work, we agreed to obtain a license and set ourselves up as the only Deaf license centre enabling more Deaf young people to achieve the award and keep the legacy going.
Prince Philip us an inspiration to us all! His memory will live on in the name of the Duke of Edinburgh Award as the most prominent founder ever.
‘Keep the DofE spirit alive.’