adventurous journey

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African Impact Creates Adventurous Journeys for DofE Award Hopefuls

Throughout its history as one of the world’s foremost organisations for youth development, the distinguished Duke of Edinburgh Award remains committed to improving conditions for young people all over the globe. The African continent has long seen DofE participants initiate positive change through volunteering, one of the charity’s most valued principles. Through the continued support of DofE proponents like Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others around the globe, the organisation may continue to serve as a revered beacon of hope for millions of young, promising youth worldwide.

In keeping true to its commitment to encourage volunteering to improve conditions around the world, African Impact, a leader of volunteer efforts in Africa, works closely with the DofE in order to offer participants memorable, impactful volunteer experiences throughout the continent. With over a decade of experience, the organisation boasts more than 80 volunteering projects for DofE participants to engage in. In addition to preparing an itinerary, African Impact also assists in ensuring budgetary and organisation Tunde Folawiyorequirements are met, enabling a simpler, less stressful experience for participants. With the prospect of cultural tours, adventurous experiences and thrilling safaris, African Impact strives to provide DofE participants with the utmost experience the continent has to offer.

From wildlife conservation to uplifting impoverished communities throughout the land, DofE participants are exposed to a wide range of opportunities enabling them to forge true impact upon the people of the continent. Developing new skills, learning about the culture of new countries and experiencing a true taste of Africa’s cuisine and wildlife adventures are all part of the journey toward optimal self-discovery when utilizing African Impact. Through their assistance, participants will be exposed to new people and relationships, an exchange of cultures and the comfort of a 24-hour support staff. These perks alone may contribute a great deal to a participant’s overall experience whilst volunteering in Africa.

Whilst travelling with African Impact is not a necessary requirement to volunteer abroad, they can certainly make the experience a memorable one. Contact the organisation’s website, www.africanimpact.com, for additional information regarding this once-in-a-lifetime trek to the sprawling landscapes of one of the most visually stunning continents in the world. Tunde Folawiyo and many other supporters of the DofE and its principles may be aware of the extraordinary impact African Impact lends to the DoE experience as a whole. With the continued encouragement of proponents around the United Kingdom, Africa and beyond, the DofE may ever serve as a great source for improving conditions throughout these continents and other needy regions around the world.

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How the DofE is changing lives in Kenya

Tunde FolawiyoThose who know of the DofE, like Tunde Folawiyo, will probably be aware of the profound impact which this programme has had on many Kenyans. It has helped hundreds of people in this country to develop the skills and traits which they need to create a better life for themselves and their communities. Take for instance, Olunga Otieno; as a result of his involvement with the DofE, he went from living in poverty, to having a successful career in education.

Raised in one of Nairobi’s largest slums, Soweto, he faced a huge number of challenges growing up, and it was often difficult for him to find the money for basic necessities, such as food and school fees. However, despite these obstacles, he worked hard in class, and managed to achieve excellent exam results.

Olunga discovered the DofE (or President’s Award, as it is known in Kenya) whilst attending St Justino’s Secondary School. He immediately signed up, and progressed through each stage, until finally, he received his gold award. This accomplishment served as a stepping stone for Olunga, providing him with one opportunity after another, and helping him to achieve his professional goals. Shortly after completing the award, Olunga undertook training to become a voluntary assessor for the expedition section.

This work for the DofE then led to him receiving a nomination for a youth delegate position at the IGE (International Gold Event), held in Mauritius. This in turn, resulted in Olunga being chosen as a youth representative for Africa on the DofE’s International Council.  He then chose to train as a secondary school teacher, and now works with many youths around Kenya, particularly those who are living in impoverished areas of Nairobi.

In addition to teaching at a local secondary school, Olunga also works as a youth development expert, mentor and speaker. Having experienced first-hand the power of having a support system like the DofE, he now aims to offer the same guidance to young people who are trying to find a way out of the poverty cycle. He is a member of both Strategic Think Tank, and the Africa Regional Training Panel for the DofE International Foundation, and his years of dedication have won him the IAA’s Bronze Friend Award. Tunde Folawiyo, and others who are familiar with the IAA, will understand what an honour it is to receive this prize. Olunga also helps people via other personal development programmes, such as ‘The Best You’ and ‘Clarity 4D’, and works with corporations, assisting them with things like coaching workshops and youth leadership training.

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Tunde Folawiyo | The Founding of the Distinguished Duke of Edinburgh Award

Tunde FolawiyoFounded by HRH the Duke of Edinburgh in 1956, the DofE has long inspired millions of young people around the globe. The programme was established to serve as a positive influence for young boys, though girls were later introduced to the charity’s teachings. Promoting a variety of paramount life skills such as public service, fitness, expeditions and the thirst for new skill, the DofE shall ever serve as a positive influence in the lives of youth throughout the United Kingdom, Africa and beyond. Tunde Folawiyo and others with similar goals to encourage the self-discovery of today’s promising youth may be fascinated by the rich history of the DofE and how it has over time impacted the lives of millions.

During February of 1956, the DofE made its debut, targeted first at boys from the ages 15 to 18. It was designed largely by retired Army member John Hunt, who had also led the first club up Mount Everest during 1953. The Award was intended to attract youth who were uninterested in joining other youth movements aiming to foster the proper upbringing of the nation’s youth. Their first Award ceremony took place during 1956. Since then, the DofE has continued its mission of spreading goodwill and encouraging the further development of the next generation of young leaders.

The number of DofE programmes, as well as its population of participants has grown with each year since its founding in 1956. As of the year 2013, approximately 300,000 youth were participating in the charity’s programmes, utilising over 11,000 Award centres throughout the United Kingdom. These designated locations include youth clubs, schools and businesses. Today, more than five million young people throughout the UK had participated in the distinguished DofE programme, with the total amounting to eight million worldwide, demonstrating the wide scope the organisation has reached in their efforts to improve conditions for communities across the world.

Since its establishment, the DofE’s rich history of goodwill has been commended throughout the world. By providing a source of encouragement and guidance for its participants, the charity will remain a much valued entity in the quest to promote optimal self-discovery amongst youth. Tunde Folawiyo and others wishing to forge a lasting impact on today’s young people may contribute to the DofE so that it may continue to fulfill its mission of a brighter future for millions around the globe and the communities that they call home.

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Tunde Folawiyo | The Social Impact of DofE Volunteering

As the DofE continues to forge an impact on the lives of millions throughout the globe, the organisation continues to place great emphasis on the act of volunteering, inspiring thousands of world-wide participants to become active in their respective communities. Supporters of the DofE like Tunde Folawiyo and others around the UK and beyond may join in Tunde Folawiyo the organisation’s efforts to propel our generation of youth to make significant change in hopes of a brighter future for all.

Amongst a variety of principles, the DofE places the act of volunteering high on its list of participant priorities. Volunteers’ Week, which took place the first week of June, was used to spread word of this commitment to bettering communities around a range of countries throughout the world. The DofE programme has long recognised the impact of youth volunteering and the enormous sense of accomplishment that comes with helping fellow man. A recent survey of nearly 232,000 participants showed a great number of young people active in volunteering. From tutoring in after-school programmes to advocating for local social issues, DofE participants have excelled in a wide range of volunteer opportunities, demonstrating the caliber of character the DofE prides itself in encouraging.

In order to merit a DofE Award, participants must commit to a prolonged period of volunteering, which may range from three months to upwards of one year, depending on the level of Award they hope to accomplish. In examining the positive impact set forth by these volunteer efforts, it’s been estimated that the value of free time DofE youth contribute to society could possibly be worth £24m yearly – a true testament to the outstanding impact that can be made possible by a joint effort for a greater good. Furthermore, over 80% of volunteering participants expressed hopes to continue volunteering even after receiving their awards after having witnessed the impact they’ve forged with over 60% crediting the DofE with providing them the tools needed to create positive change through volunteering.

The DofE continues to maintain valued partnerships with other charities holding likeminded goals. In addition to volunteering, the organisation also promotes a healthy, active lifestyle and a thirst for new skills and adventures. These sections are all necessary requirements in order to receive the esteemed DofE Award. With the continual support of Tunde Folawiyo and others hoping to inspire today’s youth, the DofE may ever remain a foremost figure in the development of today’s most promising youth.

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Tunde Folawiyo | The Duke of Edinburgh Kilimanjaro Residential Trek

The Duke of Edinburgh Award has long served as a means of encouragement for millions of young people across the world. In promoting personal development, the DofE sees thousands of students each year participate in activities that will aid in a brighter future for themselves and the communities around them. Supporters of the DofE, including Tunde Folawiyo, play an immeasurable role in the success of the DofE and its recipients, further propelling our next generation of leaders toward greatness in all aspects of life.

Tunde FolawiyoYoung people participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme are encouraged to explore personal growth through volunteering, physical challenges and adventurous journeys meant to broaden their horizons. With this each participant striving for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award must embark on a Residential Project that will ultimately prove a great understanding of the world around them. Set for summer 2015, Kilimanjaro Trek Residential Project, a 2 week experience, will see DofE hopefuls trek Africa’s highest mountain. Ascending Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route – widely acclaimed as the best route for spectacular views – the trip’s cost is £1,925. Payable in manageable installments, the majority of the cost of the trip can be paid for through fundraising efforts. Flight accommodations, guides, permits and food and supplies are all covered under the trip’s cost. Interested participants should consult their Duke of Edinburgh Award leaders before committing to the trek for Residential credit. Contact info@thebec.co.uk or Kili2015@hotmail.co.uk for more information regarding the Kilimanjaro climb.

The Residential requirements for the DofE Gold Award has proved an indispensable part of the full Duke of Edinburgh Award experience. A thorough understanding of other cultures and the struggles faced by others throughout the world will undoubtedly aid in participating youth’s attitudes of empathy.

Since its establishment in 1956, the Duke of Edinburgh Award has continually inspired youth throughout the world by promoting the basic skills needed for optimal personal growth and discovery. Founded by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh Award has since spread to over 140 countries around the globe. Its international chapters serve as a constant source of support for young people seeking the capabilities to effect real change within their communities. Supporters of the Award such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others may be pleased with the positive impact the DofE has had on youth across the world thus far. Visit a DofE chapter near you for additional information.

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Tunde Folawiyo | History of the Duke of Edinburgh Award

Since its establishment in 1956, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has proudly served the UK and other countries throughout the world as a means of encouragement. A beacon of hope for young people everywhere, the DofE continues to garner the support of worldwide advocates such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others.

Tunde FolawiyoWhile the DofE is today one of the world’s foremost organisations for youth development, its beginnings are less recognised. Founded by a small team of esteemed professionals, the DofE was conceived as a way of motivating and inspiring boys aged 15 to 18 to strive towards a strong sense of self during the often difficult years between adolescence and adulthood.

But although the DofE began with a focus on the betterment of young boys, it went on to accept both genders, with the girls’ scheme founded in 1958. In 1957 the age limit was raised to 19, gradually increasing before ultimately settling at 25. The changes paved the way for a new group of young adults striving to make a difference in their communities.

Over the years the DofE has grown exponentially into the internationally recognised programme it is today, reaching over 300,000 youths in over 120 countries throughout the world. In keeping true to its core values, the DofE continues to vigorously promote the areas of volunteering, unique skills, physical fitness and expeditions to encourage today’s young people to strive for a brighter tomorrow.

DofE participants must complete a range of training sessions and comprehensive assessments to demonstrate a great understanding of each section. With the exceptional guidance of their mentors, participants gain the information and leadership skills necessary to effectively accomplish the tasks at hand. DofE participants need to demonstrate their integrity in all that they do, from undertaking exciting activities to participating in charity work aimed at assisting their surrounding communities.

There are three DofE levels, with many participants judging the Gold level to be the most exciting. For this level participants take part in a Residential Project, embarking on an adventurous journey that sees them encountering new people, experiences and an unfamiliar environment vastly different to their own. Through the Residential Project, participants accomplish unique goals in order to gain a worldly perspective that undoubtedly leads to greater empathy and understanding of other cultures.

With the ongoing encouragement of the programme’s supporters, including Tunde Folawiyo, the DofE will continue fostering the development of bright young minds throughout the world.

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Tunde Folawiyo | The Duke of Edinburgh Award: How to Apply

As one the UK’s foremost charities, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award continues to encourage millions of young people towards optimal personal growth and responsibility. Armed with the continued support of advocates such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others throughout the UK and beyond, the DofE strives to forge an impact on our youth’s quest for greatness, self-reliance and the strength to overcome adversity.

Tunde FolawiyoThe DofE programme consists of four mandatory sections required for completion. Physical fitness, skill, volunteering and adventurous journey are all found within the teachings of the DofE. With three levels of Award – bronze, silver and gold – participants are urged to reach their fullest potential. Through a non-competitive process, participants may focus on their achievements without concerns of rivalry.

In order to apply to the DofE, participants must first register with a licensed operator. Participants of the programme must be aged between 14 and 25 in order to be considered. With the guidance of DofE mentors, students must determine which level they wish to complete. Throughout the course of the programme, DofE coordinators will serve as a most helpful source of support, therefore a strong bond with participants is of great importance.

Once a DofE applicant has received his/her record book and chosen their assessors, the activities may begin. Another highly important aspect of the DofE programme is for participants to keep in contact with their assessors and coordinators to ensure guidance throughout the entire process. Assessments are carried out on completion of each stage.

The fitness (physical recreation) section of the DofE programme is centred on a quest to promote positive body image and the importance of both emotional and physical health. Whether through participation in an exciting team sport or individual exercise, spreading awareness of the benefits of fitness is among the DofE’s top goals.

The skills section of the DofE programme sees participants showcase their unique talents. As part of this, they are encouraged to broaden their capabilities by embracing new, interesting activities. Volunteering is another fundamental principle promoted by the DofE. Participants are urged to partake in charity work and environmental work in order to wholly grasp the significance of caring for our planet and fellow man.

While taking part in the programme’s adventurous journey section, participants are encouraged to document their travels via personal photos, video recordings and sound tracks. Through these ongoing initiatives and the continued encouragement of programme supporters such as Tunde Folawiyo and millions of others, the DofE will continue to motivate exceptional youths for years to come.

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Tunde Folawiyo | How the DofE is improving school attendance rates in Kenya

Although the Kenyan government has been going to great lengths to ensure that all children are provided with free primary education, many young people are unable to Tunde Folawiyoattend on a regular basis. Approximately 83% are enrolled, but only a fraction go to school every day. Particularly in remote areas such as Bartabwa, the challenging conditions which many families find themselves in make it difficult to prioritise schooling.

However, a number of young DofE participants in Kenya have been doing their best to rectify this situation. Tunde Folawiyo, and others who are familiar with the DofE, may know of Rachel Wanjohi; for the Services section of her Gold Award, Rachel decided to encourage children in Wairuri to attend their local primary school. After visiting the school, she saw that a lack of basic facilities, such as a library, sports equipment, first aid kits and clean water had deterred many parents from sending their children there.

Rachel launched a number of fundraising projects to address these problems; her initial efforts helped to raise KES 30,000, which was then used to purchase a water tank. Further fundraising work raised even more money, and gradually, as the school facilities improved, attendance rates began to increase. Rachel’s work vastly improved the quality of life for many children in the local area, and of course, also helped help to achieve her Gold Award. Since then, she has gone on to work as Kenya’s Ambassador for Tunza Eco-Generation, and now aims to promote the eco-friendly initiatives being organised around Africa.

Judy Chesire is another former DofE participant whose work had an enormously positive impact on the education system in Kenya. For the Services section of the Award, she decided to set up a programme called Education and Life Empowerment in the above-mentioned area of Bartabwa. She started off by arranging motivational talks, during which she and other guest speakers discussed the importance of education.

She then addressed the issue of staff shortages in the local school, by enlisting the help of her fellow university students, who were able to fill in as substitute teachers when necessary. In addition to this, she encouraged local children to see school in a different light, by making learning more enjoyable for them; she organised music and PE lessons, as well as games which helped children to view education as fun, rather than as a chore. As a result, both attendance rates and grade averages have risen dramatically in Bartawa. Her work led to her being recognised by the Peter Cruddas Social Innovation Initiative, and attending a showcase for the foundation in London. Anyone who is familiar with the Peter Cruddas Foundation, like Tunde Folawiyo, will understand what an honour it is to be asked to participate in this type of event.

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Tunde Folawiyo | The Duke of Edinburgh and the Flag a Munro Challenge

In its quest to foster the personal development of promising youth across the globe, the Duke of Edinburgh Award continues to implement new activities to aid in their mission of encouraging DofE participants toward a brighter future for themselves and their surrounding communities. In keeping true to this tradition, the DofE is a supporter of the Commonwealth Games. “Flag a Munro” seeks to connect these young people with their local heritages by encouraging physical activities and an appreciation of Scotland’s magnificent landscape. Proponents of the DofE, such as Tunde Folawiyo, may find inspiration in the Commonwealth Games, the “Flag a Munro” challenge and the thrilling adventures to which they expose the exceptional participants of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Set to take place between April and June 2014, “Flag a Munro”, an initiative of the Commonwealth Games, invites participants to display flags and photos from their treks up some of the Scottish landscape’s most majestic mountains.

Tunde FolawiyoA Munro is defined as a mountain in Scotland boasting a height of over 3,000 ft. These were named for Sir Hugh Munro, who compiled the first list of these hills – Munros Tables – during 1891. Today, the most widely-recognised of the Munros is Ben Nevis, the British Isles’ highest mountain. Climbing Scotland’s Munros is a thrilling experience not to be missed.

There are a variety of ways to become involved with “Flag a Munro” at the Commonwealth Games. DofE Leaders will be responsible for registering participants. Groups of at least 4 are welcome. Upon registration, participants, along with the assistance of their group leader, will choose a Munro or group of Munros to climb. Groups will then be sent a flag which will be displayed upon completion of a climb. Photos from climbs will be put forth toward a college to be displayed during a special exhibition in Glasgow during the summer season. Climbs such as this allow DofE participants to exercise team work, determination, physical skill and problem solving. The culmination of these efforts provides participants with invaluable opportunities for self-discovery.

Throughout its history as one of the world’s foremost programmes for youth, the Duke of Edinburgh Award has partnered with groups across the world to ensure great opportunities for DofE participants. Tunde Folawiyo and other supporters of the organisation may continue to be inspired by these bright, young students and the adventures on which they embark as part of their road to self-discovery. For more information on how to become involved with the “Flag a Mundo” challenge, visit www.munromagic.com.

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Tunde Folawiyo | Bristol Rugby Club Announces DofE Initiative with Dallaglio Foundation

Tunde FolawiyoPartnered with the UK’s Dallaglio Foundation, the Duke of Edinburgh Award welcomes Bristol Rugby Club as the first to offer the prestigious DofE to its young players. At a presentation at London’s Saint James’s Palace,  DofE CEO Peter Westgarth and Paula Robertson, the Head of Programmes for the for the Dallaglio Foundation, presented the DofE license to several representatives in attendance including Bright Sparks Programme Manager Craig Capel,  Bristol Rugby and CEO Ben Breeze along with Bristol Rugby Community Foundation. Tunde Folawiyo and other supporters of the DofE may be pleased with the announcement and its impact on the growth of the programme.

The new partnership, dubbed ‘Powerful Together’ sees Lawrence Dallaglio Foundation join forces with the DofE to encourage surrounding rugby clubs to employ the Duke of Edinburgh Award for their young rugby players, ranging from aged 14 – 24. This initiative will serve as a major stepping stone in achieving the organisation’s goals of a brighter future for promising youth across the United Kingdom. Tunde Folawiyo and countless others may be aware of the DofE’s tremendous impact.

Students enrolled in the DofE programme are required to engage in volunteering, getting fit, learning a skill and planning and executing an adventurous expedition throughout a six to 18 month timeframe. These requirements are meant to promote a set of key life skills for its participants, including confidence, team work and commitment.

As one of the world’s foremost achievement awards for youth, the Duke of Edinburgh Award recognises sports as a valuable tool in encouraging young people to focus on personal development. Founder of the Dallaglio Foundation, Lawrence Dallaglio spoke of the potential sports carries for social change. He noted the DofE as the perfect charity to assist in achieving his goal of encouraging youth to explore success. The DofE plans to roll out the newfound initiative across Bristol during September.

Since its establishment, the DofE programme has sought to encourage young people across the United Kingdom and throughout the globe. In its quest to inspire youth to strive toward optimal self-development, the organisation continues to employ new projects meant to serve as a connection between the DofE and surrounding communities. Focusing on fitness, skill, adventurous journey and volunteering, DofE participants are pushed are encouraged to push their limits in hopes of awakening a newfound passion for self-improvement. Through the valued support of DofE proponents such as Tunde Folawiyo and numerous others around the world, the organisation will continue to thrive as it welcomes new participants every single day.