Update from DofE UK Youth Ambassador

At the start of this academic year our 6.2 student Anders was selected as a 2022-2023 D of E UK Youth Ambassador. The role allows Anders to represent the D of E charity at different exciting events whilst also being a voice for the younger generation within the programme.

Earlier this month, Anders was invited to attend the launch of the Heart of Arabia expedition at the Royal Geographical Society in London. HRH Anne, Patron of the project, also attended the event.

The Heart of Arabia expedition begins in November, consisting of a 13,000-kilometre expedition across Saudi Arabia. The trip will closely mirror a route first documented by British explorer Harry St John Philby, in 1917.

At the launch, Anders had the opportunity to interview Mark Evans MBE, the leader of the Heart of Arabia expedition. During the interview, Mark provided Anders with some valuable explorer’s advice: “Never be afraid to seek help and guidance from those more experienced than yourself”.

Such advice resonated with Anders, encouraging him to reflect upon his own Bronze D of E experience where he relied upon teachers and friends to support him with camping and navigation. Anders now volunteers to help, support and guide Bronze and Silver D of E participants at Concord during twilight sessions and expeditions.

Anders says that his interaction with explorer and expedition leader Mark Evans MBE has left him feeling inspired and determined. “My new bucket list goals are to explore the Yukon region of Canada and to see the northern lights”.

You can read more about Anders’ experience meeting Mark Evans MBE on his blog post: https://concordcollegeuk.com/sixthformblog/meeting-with-mark-evans-mbe-from-the-heart-of-arabia-expedition/