'Hard working' teen recognised by Duke of Edinburgh

A 19-year-old has been recognised for her "hard work" and "determination" by the The Duke of Edinburgh.

Lauren Bennett, from St Briavels in Gloucestershire, was invited to a celebration at Buckingham Palace in recognition of her Gold Duke of Edinburgh's (DofE) Award achievement.

Ms Bennett achieved the award through Wyedean School and Sixth Form Centre, and was named a Youth Ambassador for the charity earlier this year.

“Having the opportunity to meet The Duke was an unparalleled privilege," she said.

Thousands of other young people attended the event, which was held to recognise and celebrate their creativity, perseverance and resilience throughout their Gold DofE programmes.

Prince Edward was joined by the charity's CEO, Ruth Marvel, in congratulating attendees and speaking personally to some of them, including Ms Bennett.

"I’m deeply appreciative to be recognised for my hard work that contributed towards my Gold DofE and my role as a Youth Ambassador," Ms Bennett said.

“It was incredibly special to share this moment with my mum who also had the opportunity to speak with HRH - they both expressed how proud they are of my achievements this year and I feel extremely grateful to my mum for her support throughout my DofE experience.”

Whilst working towards her Gold Award, Ms Bennett supported children from disadvantaged backgrounds, volunteered, and developed a sexual harassment campaign within her school.

She was also able to canoe down the Svartälven river in Sweden as part of her expedition.

The DofE programme is open to young people between the ages of 14 and 24, who pick their own activities and volunteer for causes of their choice in order to achieve a bronze, silver or gold award.

It is offered in schools, youth clubs, hospitals, fostering agencies, prisons and sports clubs around the country.

In the future, Ms Bennett aspires to work in a similar position to Ms Marvel, in a bid to "continue improving the lives of young people".

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