Thank you to the Duke of Edinburgh
This is the Duke of Edinburgh and I discussing kayaking as part of my DofE in the late 90’s. I was one of many people he spoke to that day. He was thoroughly engaged and excited by what I was doing, and took the time to discuss it with me in great depth. Sadly the Duke of Edinburgh died on the 9th April 2021, leaving behind a legacy that continues to positively impact millions of people worldwide.
This picture lives on the wall in my home office amongst a number of images, maps and artworks that serve to remind me of my journey through life. This particular picture reminds me of two things when I am in my office; firstly, that I had a full head of hair at one time and a questionable ability in choosing well fitting suits, and secondly the impact his work has had on my whole life and career.
Its the second point I wanted to highlight in this post, and by doing so I hope to thank him posthumously in my own way. I have been involved in the DofE since the moment I can remember. My father Stuart Sykes MBE has been running a DofE group since the early 70’s, so when I came along in the early 80’s I was immersed into a family committed to the DofE. My father (Now in his 80’s - which he won’t like me mentioning) continues to successfully run his DofE group in Lancashire. I have been involved with his group over four decades as an observer, participant, assistant leader, instructor, committee member and in the last few years deputy chairman.
Little did I know when this picture was taken that the Duke of Edinburgh and his work would have had such a profound impact on my life. After considering a career as a military officer, I instead decided to continue my work as an outdoor pursuits instructor at a number of companies and organisations including Outward Bound (another organisation the Duke had a positive impact on) before taking a giant leap to set up my own business focussing on the delivery of DofE expeditions to schools throughout the UK and overseas. In my journey so far I have worked with hundreds of committed and inspirational instructors and tens of thousands of participants. Without the Duke of Edinburgh, this would not have been available and I believe the Outdoor Education sector in the UK would be a different landscape.
When running a business, it’s easy to become jaded by the day to day tasks which fill your time. Sitting behind a computer, completing accounts and other rather mundane responsibilities were never part of my plan when this picture was taken, but as often as possible I head out onto one of our expeditions or courses to see the positive impact the work my little organisation achieves.
The challenges of the last year brought about by the pandemic had at times made me feel beaten, scared and helpless. I know the experiences I have learnt from my connection to the Duke of Edinburghs Award helped me navigate through the desperate times, and come through to the other side. This weekend we start our expedition operations again with the energy, vigour and excitement they deserve. Hopefully our participants this weekend, and the thousands of participants booked onto expeditions and courses with us this year will also gain the benefits I received from the DofE.
I know first hand the benefits the DofE has created for my family, friends, staff team and the many participants we have the honour of delivering expeditions to. I have seen Lambs turn into Lions, and the prospects of many, positively expanded for their futures. It’s rare to find a career that fills you with pride and satisfaction, but it seems I have achieved it.
So in summary, thank you Sir - because without you I would not be here enjoying a satisfying career continuing the work you pioneered. May you rest with a well deserved peace.
Sam Sykes
CEO & Founder - Sam Sykes Ltd & Head of the Mammut Mountain School UK