My name is Preston Ephraim, and I am a Future Leader participant. The monthly programme has been an incredible experience to be a part of. On Sunday, April 24, 2022, I arrived at the start of the day to a warm welcome, eager to participate in the experience.

Yoga was our first activity of the day. Ms Tiffany Paynter, our yoga instructor, introduced us to a variety of forms and stretches that focused on our mental and physical states. We concentrated on deep breathing, which allowed me to ease into my stretching and take one step forward at a time. Yoga and other similar activities are excellent for improving a person's overall wellbeing.

After the yoga practice, food was offered — coleslaw, kebabs, burgers and beverages! That, too, was very rewarding. I began to think about my experience and what I had gained from it. I realised that maintaining a high level of wellbeing is something I should aim for every day. Deep breathing, yoga and even meditation are powerful practices.

After lunch, the group headed to Dockyard for roller-skating. In the beginning, I was quite nervous, as I hadn’t done anything like this in a long time. When I got my skates, I started off slow and gradually got better at it. It was encouraging to see other people making their attempts and others achieving flying colours. We had a terrific experience and I believe our group connected strongly. There were more laughs with every fall.

Overall, I believe the Future Leaders programme is an excellent opportunity in which to take part. It educates the youth of Bermuda and encourages them to step out of their comfort zone. The monthly programme has taken our group to various parts of the island and provided knowledge that can propel us forward. I am honoured to be part of it and I’m striving to become a better leader.

Many thanks to Mint Systems Skate Shop and As I Am (Tiffany Paynter) for assisting with this event.

• Preston Ephraim III is 15 years old and attends the Berkeley Institute