Journey to Gold, Megan’s Award Story

Megan is a Bronze and Silver Award Achiever and current Gold Award Participant from British Columbia. Please read her story of how she has and continues to work toward earning the Awards.  

Getting Started  

“My experience with the Award started during Grade 9 when my friends and I were encouraged by our parents to Register. I was already doing an activity for each section of the Bronze Award, making it simple. The Duke of Edinburgh Award still impacted my life, especially during the pandemic.  

Participating During the Pandemic  

The isolation caused by the pandemic was difficult for me. I felt lonely and wanted to devote my free time to something productive, but I didn’t know what. Signing up for the silver award and working towards my goals for each section gave me a sense of purpose and let me get back into a routine of learning and doing things I like. 

The Silver Award 

Working on the Silver Award encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and try new things during the pandemic.  

Physical Recreation  

Since school sports were canceled, I decided to join a soccer club team, even though I had never played soccer before. I was very nervous and self-conscious to be playing with girls who had been playing together since elementary school, but they were very welcoming, and I quickly became more confident. My excitement for weekly practices increasingly grew. It felt so good to get out of the house and meet new people, especially during the times of online school.  

Skill 

I decided that I wanted to learn how to cook for the skill section and started making a simple recipe every week. Now, I can make my favourite meals by myself, and I feel much more independent.  

“I’m grateful to the Duke of Ed program for giving me the opportunity and motivation to learn these new skills.” – Megan 

Adventurous Journey  

I completed the Adventurous Journey with three Award friends and a hiking supervisor. Before each trip, we spent several days planning our route, practicing camp skills, organizing meals, and packing. On these days and during the trips, I learned many outdoor skills and more about my environment. I practiced cooking and preparing meals outside, packing lightly and efficiently, using camp equipment, protecting myself from bears and other wildlife, and identifying different species of vegetation. 

We hiked 51 kilometers of the Sunshine Coast Trail for the qualifying Journey. I learned how to push myself and work together with the group. I had so much fun and was very proud to have accomplished my goal. The trip also let me see and explore some of the beautiful nature in British Columbia. This Journey was a once-in-a-lifetime trip that I will never forget. 

“The trip was one of the most challenging things I have done, but it was super rewarding.” – Megan   

To Future Participants 

I am so glad that I signed up for the Award. It encouraged me to do and try new things that I otherwise would not have. After completing my award, I feel I am more well-rounded and skilled. I would highly recommend this program. You never know what skills you might learn, what friends you might make, and what experiences you might have.” 

• Megan  

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