There is nothing more meaningful than embarking upon a challenge. I am honoured and privileged to be one of the ten persons who will be trekking 10 kilometres in the Lake District on 27 September 2021under the guidance of Adventurer and Gold Award Holder, Sir David Hempleman-Adams.

As a supporter of the Award and a Champion of Infinite Potential, I am marking the 100th year of the Award's founder, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

Every year, millions of young people around the world take part in the Award; stepping outside of their comfort zones, building confidence and resilience, developing transferrable skills and helping their communities. And as young people worldwide face exceptional challenge and change in the wake of the pandemic, the Award is needed more than ever.

The funds raised will go towards the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation's global fundraising campaign which will ensure 2 million more young people can benefit from the Award with 350,000 of them at risk and marginalised backgrounds.

As a dedicated supporter of the DOE's Foundation over the past five years, I have witnessed the incredible impact which the Award has had on young persons and the extent to which it has developed a broad array of skills and confidence in young persons. Indeed, both of my children have proudly participated in the Award and I am grateful to the Foundation. 

On a personal level, I wish to play my part in the development of the young leaders of tomorrow and would like to bring awareness to the exceptional effort of this worthy cause.

I am truly grateful for your encouragement and support!

Pooja