I can officially say… I’ve completed my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award! And to top it all off, I had the absolute honour of being invited to Buckingham Palace for the Gold Award ceremony. I still can’t quite believe it! After 18 months of hard work, commitment, and pushing myself beyond my limits, I stood in the gardens of the Palace and met Prince Edward, the King’s brother, to celebrate the journey I’ve been on.

What a journey it’s been.

Here’s a look at what went into achieving my Gold Award:

🎓 Skills Section
I started by doing a Propaganda and Persuasion course at Cardiff University, diving into the world of communication, influence, and media. From that, I created the blog that you can read here! What started as part of the award has become something I truly love—and I’ve continued writing ever since.

🏃‍♀️ Physical Section
My physical section began with running an hour a week… which quickly spiralled into a full-on love for running! I entered events like the Cardiff Half Marathon, Paris 10k, London 10k, and the Run 4 Wales 10k Series. What began as a requirement turned into a lifestyle—and now, a big part of who I am.

🏕️ Residential Section
I volunteered with the Urdd at Llangrannog, supporting children aged 8–12 while brushing up on my Welsh. It was such a rewarding week, and I even met my now best friend, Lilly, who was there as a volunteer teacher. The memories and connections from that trip will stay with me forever.

🥾 Expedition Section
This was brutal but unforgettable. I completed both the practice and qualifying expeditions in the Brecon Beacons as part of a team of five. Over four days, we covered 68km (42 miles), from Lakeside Llangors to Fairfield Abergavenny—through rain, wind, and two thunderstorms.

Despite one teammate’s boots falling apart and another’s bag breaking, we supported each other through every step. I camped for three nights, all while recovering from wisdom tooth surgery just two days before, dealing with 7 blisters, bruises, insect bites, a splinter, and even lost feeling in my right pinky toe. And yes—we saved a lamb that had gotten stuck in a fence! 🐑

The expedition tested me in every possible way, but I came out stronger, more resilient, and full of pride.

🌟 Volunteering Section
I volunteered for a year with a Guiding group in Ynysmaerdy, working with girls aged 9–12. I helped plan sessions, run workshops, and support the next generation of young women. It was such a meaningful experience to be part of their journeys too.

Just two days before the Buckingham Palace ceremony, I was involved in a four-car accident—something that’s still shaken me up. I’m dealing with the aftermath, sorting out insurance and finding a new car, but despite all that chaos… I still showed up at the Palace, stood tall, and celebrated this huge achievement.

I’m incredibly grateful to Girlguiding Cymru for their support throughout my DofE journey. This experience has been life-changing—from building confidence and resilience to discovering my passions and learning what I’m truly capable of.

Through every ache, challenge, and unexpected twist, I kept going. And now, I’ve finished my Gold Award.

From muddy boots and bruises to a dress at the Palace—I did it. 👑✨