Daf’s Story
After suffering with Anxiety and depression for the majority of my life I found myself to be in the position where I’d missed the majority of secondary and was in bed 24/7, It’s then I was referred to CAMHS where after 2 years or so I ended up on a Surf Therapy programme called Tonic Surf. It’s during this 10 week programme I understood that I could enjoy life and succeed. This 10 week programme truly was the catalyst in my recovery which then led me back into full time education followed by college. It’s in the meantime however I realized the power of the outdoors, understanding what’s possible and can be achieved and learned with the right support. This is when I realized I wanted to pursue a career in the outdoors with the aim of allowing other young people the space and opportunity to grow, develop and thrive. I therefore ended up studying Outdoor Adventure Education in Coleg Sir Gar where I thus began working with LoadedUK!
Working alongside LoadedUK has only served to give me a deeper understanding into the industry both the theoretical side of the preparation, legalities and assessments needed prior to running a session to the practical side, looking at hard skills, how to paddle, climb and navigate. Working alongside LoadedUK has additionally expanded my perception into the different adventurous activities through rich practical experiences from paddlesports, climbing, coasteering and caving. This has only led to my passion for the outdoors to grow over the past 2 years where I’m now collating my own equipment, planning for my own adventures and joining clubs.
Professionally LoadedUK has given me both experiences and the opportunities to participate in relevant assessments such as the paddle sports explorer, foundation safety rescue and paddle sport instructor award where I’ve since been able to find work within the industry. Alongside the practical qualifications I’ve had the opportunity to develop my soft skills in leading groups on the water which has only led to my confidence, competence and abilities as an instructor to grow. Regardless as to if someones looking for a career in the outdoors I’d encourage anyone to join a leadership training or adventurous activity with LoadedUK, I believe It’s important to take all the opportunities you can and one in the outdoors can truly help you understand yourself.
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If you think you could benefit from working with LoadedUK or if you work with young people who could benefit, please get in touch - we would love to hear from you!