I had the best time completing my award. Each award was different and had it's own challenges but I honestly loved it! The award pushed me far from my comfort zone and I learnt so much from it. On my bronze we were chased by cows and I had to climb a barbed wire fence, my silver included volunteering at a school in the local area and my gold was a whole new level of fulfillment. My expedition included a collapsed tent, sleeping in the toilets and changing our routes due to extreme weather conditions. I completed painting and decorating as part of my residential. Although the award was mentally and physically challenging, it has become a huge part of my life. Everyone I speak to jokes about how often I mention it and the amazing experience I had.

I was incredibly fortunate to attend the ceremony at Westminster Abbey where the HRH the Queen and HRH the Duke of Edinburgh were in attendance. I was so honoured to see them and this memory I will take with me forever.

Thanks to HRH the Duke of Edinburgh for creating this incredible award and something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. It has completely changed my life and who I am for the better. It has made the person I am.