I was asked to accompany a close friend and was told it would be good for my career – more of a “do as you’re told” moment. As anyone at the age of 16, though, it was hard to define the career you wanted.

I socially experienced what psychologists would call today an “A-event trauma” in the playing fields at school. Consequently, in the classroom, I was not doing so well and eventually depleted my confidence.

Thanks to the DoE award programme and the sown seeds, this all changed – they continue to grow till today. From the curiosity in soldering and coding that's transformed into the job I love so much, to the perseverance and resilience that allows me to work in multi-disciplined industries internationally.

Of course, there is more to life than a career – the principles of the award, when applied holistically and continuously, can truly innovate our content in both personal and work aspects of our lives.

Thank you to all those involved through those critical years of my life – Steve Berry, Rob, Les, Tucker and anyone else I have missed. You are all part of the historical legacy of HRH Prince Philips.