lifetime -- thanks to an international charity that promotes youth development. Donte, the son of Allan and Mildred Hunt of Smith's Parish, this summer spent 11 weeks in Uganda and recently talked to The Royal Gazette's Gareth Finighan about his journey.

The 21-year-old with a lively interest in information systems, is now studying business management at North Carolina State University, spent ten weeks in Uganda, Africa earlier this summer as part of an international team of youngsters sent out to help build a medical centre out in the bush. Mr. Hunt is the first Bermudian to be sponsored for the annual trip.

The trip was arranged by Raleigh International, an international charity that has linked up with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme to send award winners on overseas adventures.

And while there Donte also hiked up the 13,000 feet high Mount Elgon and got to rub shoulders with some of the world's fiercest animals.

Going days without all the modern conveniences such as hot water and electricity, Donte said: "It certainly gives you a big appreciation of what we have back here in Bermuda.'' "It also gave me a chance to reflect on all the major events of my life. It was a very spiritual setting and the people of Uganda really appreciated what we were doing for them -- you get this wonderful sense of having achieved something just by helping someone else.'' Donte's trek began with a journey out to the UK before flying out to Kampala, Uganda in the heart of Africa, by Hercules -- not the most comfortable of journeys.

"It was physically and mentally very tough and made you realise how insignificant having that extra pair of sneakers is,'' he said.

"Being in Africa, and mixing with the African people made me realise how much we take for granted.'' While out in the bush Donte also got to see much of Africa's wildlife, helped build a bird sanctuary and went white water rafting.

It was the animals, and the poverty, that struck me most.

"You don't only have to be physically strong but you also have to go with an open mind.

"The best reasons for going is that it's a real eye-opener, it expands your horizons and helps you develop yourself into a better person, a stronger person. It's not been a turning point exactly but it's had a huge impact on my life.'' Raleigh International is open to any young person between the age of 17 and 25. Candidates do not have to have completed the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme to qualify for sponsorship.

The organisation sets up a visit to an exotic location each year with volunteers donating their time and energy to help out the local community.

Although anyone is eligible, only Duke of Edinburgh Gold winners can obtain sponsorship for the trip Anyone interested in taking part in next year's trip, which could be anywhere across the globe, should contact Lawrence Trimingham on 295 1183.

"Raleigh is sponsoring two more Gold holders for 1999,'' Mr. Trimingham said.

"Unlike last year however, participants can choose between ten or so expeditions held throughout the year in various exotic locals around the world, including Belize, Namibia, Mongolia, Ghana, Oman and Chile. Expeditions involve conservation work, explorations and community service.'' HEARTS OF AFRICA -- Donte Hunt and other members of the Raleigh International crew (left) celebrate at the summit of Africa's 13,000-foot Mount Elgon.

(Above), Donte poses with kids from the Ugandan village where he helped to build a medical centre. A graduate of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards scheme, the 21-year-old from Smith's Parish was the first Bermudian to take part in the Raleigh programme.