My journey with the Award scheme began with attaining my Bronze Award in Dunmurry High School and then progressing to the Silver and Gold awards with 142nd Kilmakee Girls Brigade Company. Our leader Mrs Stevenson and the Captain Anne encouraged us to go for Gold. Developing new skills and having lots of fun along the journey. Most importantly so many character building skills. It didn’t end there. During the Silver Jubilee visit in 1977 of The Queen and Prince Philip to Northern Ireland I was one of the participants to have the honour of being presented with my Gold Award onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia! Along with my friend Valerie (our driver ) and our 2 Mums we made our way through very heavy road traffic and security to Belfast docks - to find ourselves in the wrong lane!! With minutes to spare and breaking a few road rules we managed to cross the central reservation, arriving just in time to jump onboard the pilot boat. After the presentation and a photograph to capture the moment Prince Philip spoke with our group and our parents. Prince Philip made us all feel at ease and joked with our Mums. We even had the added bonus of seeing the Queen and Prince Andrew. My Mother was so proud that day and she recounted her visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia to Prince Charles a few years ago when she was presented to him. My DofE journey didn’t end there. In September 1979 i was one of 5 chosen to represent the UK ( the first from Northern Ireland) on the 4th International Gold Award Project in Australia. What a wonderful experience it was for a 22 year old. Lifelong friendships forged with the other 4 UK participants Steve, Gerry, Alasdair and Amanda. I have so much to Thank the Award scheme for.