The journey is done and the Award achieved. So what’s
next?
Unlike other awards and honors, one does not "win" with The Duke of
Edinburgh’s International Award, it must be earned. An
important difference. The Award is an incredible opportunity to improve skills
and discover new experiences. The benefits of the journey participants take to
complete their Award stays with them long after they have received their
certificate.
Did you know?
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada also helps participants stand out on college applications and job resumes. For participants to say that they have earned an Award demonstrates that they are well-rounded, adaptable, and committed. The experiences gained and skills learned become increasingly evident, and the pin they receive upon completing their Award is a true testament of their commitment of serving others.
Award holders
Almost 40* percent
of employers say a lack of skills is the main reason for entry-level
vacancies. Participation in the Award provides you with the skills
employers are looking for.
The life skills
taught through this programme give a head-start to any young person about to
leave school to enter the world of work.Onika Stellinburgh, Gold Award
holder, Guyana
Did you know?
The Award gives you
international accreditation for your experiences. Make sure employers know
about the skills and experiences you've developed through your Award
programme.
Add the Award to
your CV and LinkedIn profile
Adding your Award
to your CV and LinkedIn profile will enable you to stand out from the crowd. Including
the skills you have developed outside of the classroom will demonstrate to
employers that you have the qualities they require.
Share
your Award experiences with employers in interviews
Use your Award
experiences to demonstrate to employers how you learnt key skills. For example,
you most likely developed team working, communication and leadership skills on
your Adventurous Journey. You probably improved your patience during your Skill
section; taking time to learn something new requires dedication, and you may
have even surprised yourself with your ability to problem solve whilst carrying
out your Service. It’s skills and experiences like these that employers are
keen to hear about, so remember to tell them when they ask for examples of how
you demonstrate each of these skills and attributes.
*40 per cent of employers say a lack of skills is the main
reason for entry-level vacancies – Source Mourshed, M., Farrell, D., &
Barton, D. (2012). Education to Employment: Designing a System that Works. (n.p.): McKinsey Center
for Government​
Stay in touch
Being part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award – Canada Alumni is
something to be proud of. We encourage people to join and be part of our online
communities.
Stay in touch with us via LinkedIn.
We are currently in the process of developing the Canadian National Alumni Program! As we begin to develop this program, we
encourage you to connect with your Alumni in your local community. Check out
our Alumni page for more
information and to see if there is a local Alumni program in your province and
to stay up to date with the national alumni initiative.