Keely's Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition to South Africa
Fundraising Target: £2195
My Donations to date: £550.00
Fundraiser(s): Keely West
Event: Get Keely to Africa!
Event Date: 13th August 2011
Charitie(s) Supported: Duke Of Edinburgh Gold Expedition - Keely West,
Hello , my name's Keely (17) and I am currently studying the International Baccalaureate.
I have been fortunate enough to obtain a place on next year's Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award trip to South Africa and Mozambique.
The total cost of the trip is £2195 however I believe the benefits to me, and to the community both here in England at in South Africa will be well worth the money. I have been working hard over the last few weeks to raise the all important funds.
This is a Duke of Edinburgh Gold Expedition, and is not a holiday. I will be doing a lot of walking, working, and performing domestic chores. I will also be taking part in an environmental awareness course and sleeping under the stars in the Hlane Royal Game Reserve in Swaziland. I will get involved in local communities, and will go to places and meet people who will allow me to experience South Africa in a way that would not be possible on a normal trip.
On this trip I will be undertaking many activities including talks on anti poaching and animal conservation(given by Anne Riley whose father is one of the most important conservationists in Swaziland) and helping the rangers in the clearing of Chromalaena (an invasive plant which causes severe problems in Southern Africa). During the trip, I may to encounter lion, elephant, white rhino, giraffe, zebra, numerous antelope, warthogs, hyena etc all at close quarters.
The expedition to South Africa also involves visiting a local community and learning from the local Chief many aspects of Swazi culture, history, and community. We will visit local Primary schools where we will refurbish and reequip some of the classrooms. Finally we will make new friends and create memories to last a lifetime!
I believe that this experience could help me achieve my dream of pursuing a career in Medicine; the trip would give me confidence and a view on life that everyone is looking for, from employers to universities. In this way, I hope to make a difference to other people's lives, and a difference to my community.
All donations are welcome, no matter how big or small! I believe this is a chance to support a fantastic cause!
Thank You : )