I undertook all 3 levels of the D of E as a teenager in New Zealand in the late 70s and 1980, having been introduced to the scheme through the Girls' Brigade (GB). My expedition for my gold award coincided with torrential rain (not uncommon in NZ) & I still recall my determination to finish despite the inclement weather. I participated in the award scheme with one of my friends from GB. We did all of the group activities together and gained our awards at the same time. We are still in touch now even though we live on opposite sides of the world, so the scheme has given me a friend for life. The award scheme also gave me the confidence to be independent and also taught me to have a degree of resilience - both qualities that have served me well ever since, and particularly over the past year (I am now a doctor in the NHS).

I also have one extra special memory. Usually in NZ, gold award participants receive their award certificate from the governor general. I finished my award in time to be part of the group who received their award certificate from HRH Prince Charles when he visited NZ in 1981. I practised my curtsy for weeks beforehand and I can still remember what he said to me. (I was in my GB uniform and he asked me about one of my badges). Such a special day and a unique opportunity which only came about through having been involved in D of E at just the right time.