My experience to, on and from Young Endeavour Youth Scheme

When I was young, a family friend had gone on Young Endeavour. Their experience inspired me to participate in Young Endeavour Youth Scheme when I was old enough. In my last year of school, in 2016, I applied for Young Endeavour’s voyage from Darwin to Broome during their circumnavigation of Australia.

Despite being sad to leave my new friends when we left the ship, I had an overwhelming sense of achievement because that voyage signified how I had achieved a long-time dream; and learnt, overcame and accomplished more than I expected to. The voyage challenged me to push my limits and adapt to unfamiliar situations. As a result, my behaviour and personality changed, and I am more confident, empathetic and diligent. I am incredibly grateful to Young Endeavour for the experience on this voyage and the lifelong friends I met onboard.

After Young Endeavour, I was inspired to be a more conscientious member of my community and to pursue my interests. At the time of my voyage, I was heading into the final term of high school. I was considering what to pursue as a career after Young Endeavour; after a tour to the engine room, I realised I wanted to be an engineer. I’m in my final year of part-time study and have been working as a cadet engineer.

Outside of work and research, I have casually been involved in local sailing activities due to Young Endeavour cementing my love for being on the water. I plan to embrace this more after finishing my studies. YE is a significant part of my development in my last year of school and beyond.

I urge all people considering applying to apply because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that shapes the person you are.

Jessica Gardner

Voyage V16/16