A 24 year old in Grande Prairie has earned herself a Duke of Edinburgh International Award. Miranda Kerik first heard about the award when she was 22. She took horse back riding to receive the bronze award in April 2015. More recently, she was awarded the silver award for her participation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
“It made me go and try new things. I learned a lot about myself and I think that is important. I think in life we forget to be life long learners. This award helps people focus on, not just one thing, but the physical, mental, and social aspects of life”
She explains that anyone who wants to build confidence and skills, this is the perfect avenue to do just that.
“I was at a place in my life where I had my career, I wasn’t in school, and I didn’t really have any major goals in my life. It really pushed me out of my bubble”
She is now working toward her gold level.
The award is available for anyone to work towards between the ages of 14 to 24. It is a non-competitive way for youth to develop self awareness as well as build confidence among many other things.
Along with Kerik, Grande Prairie’s Macey Shanks also received the award after she challenged herself to complete a 4 day hiking and biking expedition on the Tumbler Ridge trails.