I’m cycling from London to Brighton for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Hello - I'm Josh.

If you know me, you’ll know I love the outdoors. Hiking, running, kayaking, camping - I’m always up for an adventure. I’ve been part of the Scouts Association since I was six, starting with Beavers. Over the years, I’ve worked my way through the groups and even returned as a young leader with the same Beavers group I joined more than a decade ago.

As someone who thrives outside, I was always aware of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It sounded like a great way to challenge myself and explore more of the world around me. But it wasn’t until I visited secondary schools in Year 6 that I truly understood what the DofE is all about. That made me even more determined to get involved.

In Year 9, I applied for the Bronze Award through my school and was thrilled to be accepted. Since then, I’ve completed Silver and am now working towards my Gold.

Recently, I was honoured to be selected as a DofE UK Youth Ambassador for the 2025/26 cohort. Alongside 31 other young people from across the UK, I’ll be sharing my experiences to encourage others to take part. We’ll also be working with the charity to help shape the future of the award and ensure it continues to support young people from all backgrounds.

A key part of being an ambassador is raising awareness and funds for the DofE. That’s why, on 14th September 2025, I’ll be taking on the London to Brighton cycle ride to raise money for this incredible organisation.

It’s a tough 55-mile ride, and I’m not a seasoned cyclist - so I’ve been training hard. To make things even more challenging, I’ll be doing it the day after running a 10km Wolf Run.

The COVID-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis have left young people in the UK facing more challenges than ever. As we come out of lockdown, the DofE offers every young person - regardless of ability, interest or background - the chance to build lifelong skills, confidence and resilience. It helps young people feel able to do anything, achieve anything, and overcome whatever life throws their way.

Taking part in the DofE has meant the world to me. It’s taught me so much, and now I want to give something back.

If you’re able to donate, even a small amount, it would mean a lot. Your support will help the DofE reach even more young people and transform more lives.

Thank you for reading,

Josh Davis