The DofE Award gave me something that nothing else ever has. It taught me skills I never knew I could achieve, allowed me to meet people I never dreamed of meeting (HRH included) and going places I never thought I’d reach. For a chap who grew up in an environment where travel and the outdoors weren’t a thing, the DofE gave me exactly the focus and determination I was lacking in my school years. Before the DofE I struggled to apply at school, finding it dull and non-stimulating. I struggled with a purpose, a goal and often asked what was the point? DofE gave me the ability to prove to myself I was able to lead, I was able to trust and I was able to push myself with support of those around me. DofE allowed me to achieve the impossible. Through helping with Bronze and Silver expeditions almost every month, and completing my own Gold Award in New Zealand, I reflect on all of it with fantastic memories. I hold close those values that DofE instilled and they got me through my degree, my PhD and today, in my role leading a team of scientists the values of trust, communication and resilience are nothing short of essential. Only today, on reflection of HRHs passing, did I realise how much DofE has shaped who I am today and the way I try to inspire the next generation. I can honestly say that I have no idea where I would be today without completing the DofE, but it wouldn’t be here.