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Real Life Story: Young Explorer Ben

By British Exploring Society,

 

“One aspect that I will never forget is the landscape, scenery, mountains, and wilderness. I learned about glaciers and the geology of the area. I found it fascinating.”

 

I’m Ben, I am 14 and live in Lancashire. I love sports, especially football, and my favourite position is the goalkeeper. I am in Year 10 at school.

I heard about British Exploring Society when I saw an advert with my local Youth Zone. I applied [for Hartz Scottish Explorers 2021], but I didn’t think it would happen. I felt very excited, but a bit nervous at the same time. I didn’t know too much about what was going to happen on expedition which I found challenging.

Throughout the process of fundraising for my expedition I found it difficult to ask for help. I learnt a lot from speaking to others and it helped my interpersonal skills. My tips for fundraising would be to start as early as possible.

 

On Expedition

I stayed nearby to Fort William for 13 nights. I was camping at basecamp and wild camping whilst on expedition. It was tough at times, but I’m glad I persevered. I found it difficult on expedition carrying the weight of my bag, with the mileage and terrain we covered. The highlights for me were making friends with new people, having a campfire in the evening, and relaxing in the most amazing scenery.

One aspect that I will never forget is the landscape, scenery, mountains, and wilderness. I learned about glaciers and the geology of the area. I found it fascinating.

 

Post-Expedition

I look after the environment more and I feel that I am more resourceful than I was. I don’t waste things. I feel more confident, my self-esteem has increased, and my communication skills have improved. I would like to be involved in future expeditions. My Leaders were very fair, supportive, and positive. They encouraged me and helped me develop as a person.

The whole experience, the location, and the expedition itself was special. It was nice to meet other people over Zoom before we went on expedition. If another person was thinking of going but was undecided, I would say, just do it, you won’t regret it. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity for me. Without the donations of donors, I wouldn’t have been able to go. Thank you.

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