Becoming Well-Rounded, Sarah’s Award Story  

“My name is Sarah, I live in Winnipeg, Manitoba, my Duke of Edinburgh journey started with the Bronze Award when I was 14. I found out about the Duke of Edinburgh Award from my middle school principal. I enjoy being active and I like to challenge myself, so I thought I’d give the Award a try. I’m so glad I did because it has been a very rewarding experience. I have since completed the Silver Award and on my way to earn Gold this year. Doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award program has been a very enriching experience because it required me to develop myself in the four areas of volunteerism, sport, a skill, and an outdoor adventure.

Mentorship

One of my mentors ran the volunteer program that I participated in as a reading tutor to children with some learning challenges. Her name is Jenn and she involved me in many different aspects of the Learning Disabilities Association of Manitoba (LDAM). For instance, I worked as a language tutor, fundraiser, camp counsellor and office staff. My experience was so varied and interesting that other participants in the Duke of Edinburgh program also sought to volunteer at LDAM.

Life After the Award

Each aspect of The Award was so much fun! I played ultimate for my sport, played piano for my skill and volunteered with both elderly people and children. I went sailing in British Columbia for my Silver Adventure. I think my volunteer work was my favourite part because I might not have had this experience if it were not for The Duke of Edinburgh Award. I met so many interesting people through volunteerism and will make this a part of my life even after I complete the Award.

Award Experience during COVID

The only unexpected challenge I had in completing The Award was continuing to function during COVID. At the same time, this challenge forced me to be creative, resourceful, and adaptable to modifying the way I worked on my levels. For instance, I took piano lessons and conducted my tutoring classes over zoom. I also had to set up my Adventurous Journey myself with the approval of the Award center.

Leadership Building

One tremendous benefit to doing the Duke of Edinburgh Award program is developing my skills as a self-directed learner and a leader. For example, as a volunteer tutor, I was entrusted to plan and conduct the lessons, and assess the learning progress of the students assigned to me. My positivity experience as a tutor inspired my peers to also seek out this opportunity to tech children to read.

Silver Ceremony

The evening I received my Silver Award felt very special. I attended a formal ceremony at Government House and was presented my award personally by Her Honourable Lieutenant Governor Janice Filmon. We had a beautiful reception afterward and were able to visit with our fellow recipients.

Why you should Join the Award

I have recommended The Duke of Edinburgh Award experience to many of my peers. I would encourage anyone who enjoys a challenge, wants to develop themselves as a well-rounded person, and is looking to meet new people and have unique experiences to seek participation in this Award. I have enjoyed tremendous personal growth and benefit as a participant myself.”

Sarah, Silver Award Holder

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