The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
Context
Since 2023, the Romanian Angel Appeal Foundation has been licensed to implement “The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award” program as part of the Stand by Me project for the Romanian and Ukrainian communities.
“The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award” program represents a remarkable initiative in terms of youth development and personal exploration.
Initiated by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, this program is designed to guide young people in discovering and harnessing their potential, while simultaneously developing essential skills for their future success and promoting positive impact on the community.
At the heart of a global network of similar initiatives, this program serves as a catalyst for young people eager to explore adventure and achieve significant personal growth.
Through diverse activities such as volunteering, sports, adventure, and skill development, participants are encouraged to broaden their horizons, build confidence, and take on responsibilities, thus preparing them for future challenges.
At the same time, the “Stand By Me” project is an example of an initiative that fits within this program, providing support and guidance to youth in need and promoting solidarity and community involvement.
This program, created by Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, has become a global catalyst for young people seeking adventure and personal growth.
About the Program
The “The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award” program offers global recognition through a respected certificate recognized in all countries around the world. DofE participants have traveled to foreign countries, secured job opportunities, and earned scholarships, with the certificate serving as recognition for:
- Personal growth and resilience, increased self-confidence, and leadership skills development
- The ability to push personal boundaries, learn from experiences, and create unforgettable memories through outdoor adventures
- Active community involvement and awareness of social issues through volunteering activities
- Leveraging networking opportunities
The Romanian Angel Appeal Foundation has enrolled over 30 young people supported by 10 leaders and mentors in the program.
These 30 young individuals will complete the first stage of the program – Bronze level – this summer with an adventure camp and an award ceremony.
The Benefits of the Program
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Program offers a series of other significant benefits for young people:
1. Life Skills Development: Participants learn to manage their time effectively, collaborate efficiently in teams, set goals, and develop practical skills essential for success in life.
2. Improved Health and Well-being: Through involvement in outdoor activities and sports, young people enhance their physical and mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
3. Increased Adaptability and Resilience: The program challenges young people to adapt to new and unexpected situations, push their limits, and become more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.
4. Exploration and Adventure Opportunities: Youth have the chance to discover new places, cultures, and natural environments through adventure activities and organized trips within the program.
5. Building a Support Network and Friendships: The program provides participants with the opportunity to meet and work with people from different social and cultural backgrounds, allowing them to expand their network of contacts and develop social and communication skills.
Last step - The Adventure
In the DofE program, adventure is a fundamental part of the personal development experience.
Adventure within DofE is not just a journey into nature or a recreational activity; it’s an opportunity for young people to push their limits, develop essential skills, and create unforgettable memories.
This adventure can be a mountain trek, a wilderness camp, a camping trip, or any outdoor activity that challenges participants to step out of their comfort zone and discover new perspectives on the world and themselves.
Through adventure, young people learn to plan and prepare for a journey safely, collaborate as a team, manage resources, and adapt to various conditions and challenges.
It also helps them build self-confidence, communication skills, and the ability to handle new and unforeseen situations.
Before embarking on their adventure, our youth have gathered teams of fundraising swimmers from various fields, forming a true spirit of teamwork and solidarity at a special event – Swimathon.
Together, they swim to raise funds used in the adventure camp.
Swimathon is more than just a swimming competition; it’s an opportunity for young people to actively engage in supporting their own future and that of those around them.
By participating in Swimathon, young people demonstrate their commitment to personal development and to creating new opportunities for themselves and others in an experience full of determination and solidarity.
