Outward Bound

A few weeks ago I got an opportunity to attend Outward Bound in Anakiwa, in the South Island. Outward Bound is a worldwide course, it is a registered charity, specialising in helping people realise their full potential through outdoor challenges and adventures. I was one of the lucky people to get a scholarship and I am forever grateful for the college giving me this opportunity. It was 8 days, with new people, new experiences and new challenges. Knowing no one I was very nervous but what amazed me was how over such a short period of time people from all walks of life are thrown together in challenges and can become almost like family.

Over the week we got up to a lot of stuff. It was very full on and busy but that’s what made it so exciting. Every day was something new and you never knew what the plan was for the day. All we would be told was what to wear, pack and prepare and then we would set off on an adventure not knowing what was heading our way. That was the best part of it. You would just have to go with it. Over the 8 days, we did so many activities like rock climbing, kayaking, Sleeping on a boat under the full moon, lots of hiking and staying overnight in the bush, rowing and sailing. One of my most special moments was when we were told to go into the bush for an hour by ourselves lying beside a stream listening to nature and that was the first time I had felt so peaceful in a very long time.

I had learned so many things over the 8 days, whether it was how to steer the boat while we were sailing, figuring out where we were in the bush with our compasses or even the history behind Outward Bound. Even though at times it was mentally and physically challenging it pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me persevere and learn more about myself. I have learnt and gotten so many things out of Outward Bound but the most important thing was how sometimes when life can get hard and challenging you always have to look on the bright side, you must make yourself proud before you can make others proud. To live in the moment more and make the most of everything. One last thing that I learnt is everyone can be a leader, there will always be something that people will admire you for and be motivated by you without you ever knowing. I genuinely think everyone should experience Outward Bound as it can change your life in so many wonderful ways.

Olivia Fogden, Year 12