Nearly two dozen students who bravely took on the challenges of Outward Bound Monaco’s overseas programmes in England and Wales this summer have been awarded their official diplomas by Prince Albert II.
Outward Bound’s history stretches back to 1941, when the concept was created as way to “save young lives directly threatened in World War II” during the bombing raids of UK cities.
Today, this international network of outdoor educational organisations has shifted its focus to changing and improving the lives of young people around the world, including here in the Principality, and the confidence building courses built by Outward Bound instil independence, critical-thinking and compassion that last a lifetime and make for community leaders of tomorrow.
MONACO SALUTES ITS PARTICIPANTS
Over the summer, 23 Monegasque students aged 10 to 17 took part in Outward Bound programmes located in England and Wales. There they tested their personal limits and set about overcoming challenges as individuals and as teams, but also had a great deal of fun along the way.
On 7th December, these intrepid young people were invited to the Yacht Club de Monaco for an awards ceremony that celebrated their achievements. They were joined by Lord Sebastian Coe, a former Olympian and the President of the International Association of Athletics Federations, along with friends, family and members of Outward Bound.
Prince Albert was there too in his capacity as the patron of the local programme, and he offered his heartfelt congratulations to each of the participants, acknowledging their courage and resourcefulness.
It was then the turn of Sarah O’Connor, the President of Outward Bound Monaco, to make an inspirational speech.
“The aim of Outward Bound is to help young people believe they can achieve more than they thought possible,” she said. “We are not talking about aspirations, but about belief in what you can do based on physical experience.”
Continuing with a nod to the participants, she said, “Outward Bound takes young people out of their comfort zones and on adventures in wild places. It presents young people with challenges which help them to know themselves.”
Moving to thank all those involved, she concluded, “This evening has been a celebration of Outward Bound and the positive impact its courses can have on the lives of young people. I would like to thank all our supporters and helpers who have made this possible, and also our Patron H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco for once again taking the time to meet the students and present their certificates and also Lord Sebastian Coe for joining us and supporting Outward Bound.”
Join the Monaco Life community – the largest English media in the Principality.
Sign up for the Monaco Life newsletter, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.
Photo credit: Ed Wright Images