I first became involved with the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme when I was 13 and a half. An early beginner, however I knew that I was destined to complete the three levels in the programme, Bronze, Silver, and Gold.

Two of my older brothers had already begun the activity and I wanted to follow in their footsteps. Each time they returned from their bronze and silver expeditions, their experiences were something that I wanted to have myself and knew that I wouldn't be satisfied until they were mine to remember.

There are different activities involved with each level and the duration is increased as you pass from bronze to silver and finally silver to gold.

Over my past four years with the programme, I've learned so much and so many opportunities were presented to me that otherwise I would not have had the privilege to experience.

With my Bronze Award I improved my squash game, learned how to make quilts, and taught young children how to play squash. Then in my Silver award I took my volunteer work and physical education at the Squash Club to another level and I joined my school's choir. Finally with the Gold level I enjoyed art classes, became a better volleyball player, learned about the presence of racism in Bermuda, volunteered at Endsmeet Animal Hospital, and participated in the Nonsuch Island Natural History Camp. The lessons learned and memories gained with each award's activities have shaped my life immensely. Finally, the expedition section of the programme. At each level you find out what you're really made of, and find out the true meaning of: "When the going gets tough, the tough get going!'' Learning how to cook with a wood stove, carrying all your supplies on your back, and trekking for mile after mile doesn't sound like a very exciting time, but trust me it is. A smile comes to my face when I remember people complaining that they slept in a tent with the River Nile soaking their sleeping bag, or toasting marshmallows with my History teacher. I've recently completed the last of my expeditions in Guyana this past summer and those two weeks changed my life. I am proud to say that I managed to see, what I would consider a wonder of the world, Kaieteur Falls. Their magnificence made everyday of the expedition that I spent in the jungle worth it.

If there was one thing that I can tell you as to why you should participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, it would be this. This programme will give you life-changing experiences but only if you're ready to work and experience them.

By Karen Jones Meeting the challenge: A group of participants in the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme celebrate their climb to the Falls.

Narrow View: Pictured is a view of the Pataro River near the Kaieteur Falls in Guyana, South America. The area was visited by students in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.