Following the sad news last month of his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh’s passing at the age of 99, I began to reflect on the impact the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards (DofE) had on my life.
Being the child of a diplomat, I was fortunate to have had an international upbringing and the experience of living in and travelling to several different countries during my childhood.
In year 12, I started the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award whilst at boarding school at the British School of Lomé in Togo.
Togo is a small francophone speaking country on the west coast of Africa. What I remember most about my time in Togo was the extremely hot weather (Togo is on the equator), tropical palm tree lined beaches, vibrantly dressed locals, delicious French patisseries and the sound of the motor-taxis.
My entire year group participated in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. I remember being very excited to travel out of Lomé to the southwest of the country to Mount Agou.
Mount Agou is located close to the Ghanaian border and stands at an impressive 3,235 feet. It is the highest point in Togo and the higher up you climb the more breathtaking the view.
During our camping trips we learnt how to pitch a tent, improve our map reading skills and cook some quite impressive meals on a gas stove.
The hiking was difficult and the days long and hot, there were times when our map reading skills failed us and we ended up off course. But we learnt important skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, problem-solving and perseverance.
Another requirement of the DofE Awards is volunteering and participating in a sport. I volunteered once a week for the duration of two years at a local orphanage in Lomé, all while pursuing academic success and playing on the school’s volleyball team.
Volunteering at the orphanage had a profound impact on my life and has contributed to my chosen career path. Like his Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, I think it’s important to live a life of service.
I would highly recommend The Duke of Edinburgh's Award programme. It teaches children to overcome challenges, encourages health and fitness, builds confidence and can raise aspirations. Participating in the scheme creates lifelong memories and receiving the award was just the cherry on top.