On April 5, there was a formal Gold Award ceremony at St Kentigern’s College, where 84 young people from across the country (1% of all participants) were presented with their Gold Award by Sarah Hillary, daughter of Sir Edmund Hillary and Ken Hames, the National Chair of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award.
Among those gaining recognition from MAGS were Ryan Antia, pictured right, and Ryan Shen.
Award Leader Mr Belson, also pictured right, said, “It was a wonderful occasion with lots of inspirational words from the young recipients and guests. I would also like to congratulate Jamie Snow, who has also just completed his Gold Award.”
Mr Belson added, “The weekend prior to this saw a group of silver students, pictured above, participate in their practice journey down in the Hunua ranges. It was a stunning weekend making for perfect tramping and camping conditions around the Upper Mangatawhiri Dam. Well done to all those involved and a thank you to Mr Knowles who gave up his time to help out.
“At the other end of the Award, there has been a number of Year 10 students starting their Duke of Edinburgh journey by signing up for the Bronze award, which is awesome to see.”
Ryan Antia said, “Completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award was transformative, teaching me resilience, leadership and the value of community.”