British Exploring Society Yukon Expedition 2023
As I lay in my bed recovering from surgery, unable to walk, I found solace in researching activities I could dive into once I regained my mobility. That’s when I stumbled upon the British Exploring Society, a beacon of excitement for adventurous young souls like me. Their mission to send young people to explore the farthest corners of the world and discover its wildlife resonated deeply with my desire to not only see the world but also acquire valuable life skills for the future.
With determination and a newfound sense of purpose, I signed up for an expedition to Canada. As the only brown Asian boy among a diverse group of explorers, my nerves initially got the best of me. But my worries vanished as soon as I met my fellow expedition members. They greeted me with open arms, radiating friendliness and inclusivity. I quickly realized that I was among people who saw me as an equal, not an outsider.
Throughout the expedition, I seamlessly integrated into the group, contributing my skills and enthusiasm to every activity. Even during the inevitable lows of our adventure, our leaders and fellow pupils were always there to offer a helping hand or a word of encouragement. On one particularly homesick day, my fellow explorers noticed my distress and came together to provide the comfort of a family. It was a poignant moment that solidified our bond, transforming us into a tight-knit family unit on this wild journey.
One of the standout memories from the expedition was our trek to Mount Auriol. Lake Elias had already left me awestruck with its breathtaking beauty, but Mount Auriol took my breath away in a different way. The majestic vistas left me utterly speechless, and as we continued our trek to various locations, the natural wonders kept surpassing one another. It was a journey of constant amazement.
Throughout the expedition, I soaked up a wealth of knowledge and skills. From mastering essential knot-tying techniques for life-or-death situations to measuring soil pH to understand why specific plants thrived in these remote areas, I expanded my horizons in ways I could never have imagined. Setting up spy cams to observe elusive wildlife during the night provided us with thrilling glimpses into the secret lives of creatures that remained hidden during the daytime.
In the end, my journey with the British Exploring Society not only broadened my understanding of the natural world but also forged unbreakable bonds with my fellow explorers. It was a life-altering experience that not only helped me recover physically but also nurtured my growth as an individual, instilling in me a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our planet.
Finally, I would like to thank my expedition leaders and fellow members for all the support, as without them I will not be able to build many skills for my adult life, whilst exploring and enjoying the wildlife.