AYLI has partnered with Outward Bound to offer scholarships for two amazing young Kiwis to their Mind Body Soul course! This year, Devin Newth (Papatoetoe) and Caitlin Meynell (Johnsonville) will learn more about themselves and grow their leadership skills as they push themselves physically and mentally - with sailing, tramping, rock climbing, and kayaking challenges.
Today Devin and Caitlin set off! Here's what Devin hopes to get out of her course - you can read Caitlin's thoughts here.
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Why am I excited to go to Outward Bound?
I’m excited to go to Outward Bound because it will give me the opportunity to explore the world out of Auckland and beyond school. The cutter experience looks amazing because it’s on open water, and the watch has to use teamwork and cooperation to make sure the boat arrives safely at each destination. High ropes is something I’ve done before, and this one is in the trees and you get a better view. It looks more challenging with a good adrenaline rush! Rock climbing is something I’ve never done before, so it will be cool. Having to find a safe place for your hands and feet will take a lot of concentration and patience. It will be awesome to meet new people and learn about their cultures and backgrounds.
What will I find most challenging?
The most challenging thing for me will be the three day solo, because I like being around people. Being in my own space for that long is something I will find difficult. I hope to overcome this by doing things to keep me occupied, such as making my sleeping space weather-proof and comfortable enough.
What do I want to get out of the course?
What I would like to get out of the Mind Body Soul course is a new experience in a place that I’m not used to, and to develop more independence and teamwork. I also want to build my life skills and hope to gain new skills in activities such as sailing, rock climbing and kayaking. The experience might even make me change my career path!
How will I be better equipped to create positive change in my community?
I will be better equipped to influence positive social change when I get back because I will have the skills, experience and motivation to volunteer more to improve society’s obstacles to better living conditions for all. One project that I contributed to with Key Club was to pack a container for Vanuatu with school supplies such as desks and books, because they had a cyclone. It’s heart-warming to be involved in projects like this and I want to keep doing community work.