Founded 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.