How Baljodh ‘shapes futures’ as a DofE Leader

Baljodh’s journey to becoming a DofE Leader started in 2021 while he completed his Gold Award. That same year, he became a Leader at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara DofE Centre when it launched. After a stint as Youth Ambassador in 2023, he became a DofE Leader at CCF Holly Lodge — where he completed his own DofE.

1. Tell us about your role

My main responsibility as a Leader is supporting Silver participants through their DofE journey. I ensure regular contact is made so they stay on track with their sections and feel supported at every stage.

I have organised career events, skills sessions and guidance workshops to help participants see how DofE links to their futures. I also act as a key point of contact if they need advice, reassurance or simply someone to talk to about their progress.

When we first launched the Guru Nanak Gurdwara DofE Centre, we ran sessions both in person and online on a fortnightly basis, which later became monthly. The time commitment is truly what you make of it — the more you invest, the more impact you see.

Now at CCF Holly Lodge, I work closely with the Contingent Commander on a monthly basis to review participants’ progress and ensure they are supported in their journey.

2. How did you prepare for your role as a DofE Leader?

I began by attending the DofE Leaders’ training course, followed by the Expedition Assessor course. These provided the practical foundations — understanding risk assessments, consent, safeguarding and confidentiality policies.

Having completed Bronze and Silver myself (and continuing my Gold), I was already familiar with the structure and expectations of the Award. That lived experience gave me insight into what participants truly need from their Leaders.

I also focused on building a network — learning from experienced Leaders, sharing best practice and continuously developing my knowledge. Preparation does not stop after training; it continues through reflection and experience.

My role as a Youth Ambassador prepared me by giving me confidence and perspective. I learned how to confidently raise concerns, suggest improvements and speak to senior leaders about what participants truly need. That experience strengthened my communication skills and taught me how to advocate effectively — something that is essential as a Leader.

It also prepared me to lead from the front. Delivering sessions, speaking at events and engaging with different audiences helped me become more confident in guiding young people. I became comfortable having open conversations, addressing challenges and supporting participants through difficulties.

3. Why did you become a DofE Leader?

Having completed my Bronze and Silver Awards myself, I experienced first-hand the impact DofE can have on a young person — building resilience, teamwork, communication and confidence.

I was not born in the UK and moved here in 2011. Settling into a new country, culture and school system was challenging. In Year 9, starting DofE became a turning point for me. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me opportunities that shaped the person I am today.

When the opportunity arose to launch DofE at Guru Nanak Gurdwara, it felt deeply meaningful. I realised there were many young people who shared a similar journey to mine — navigating identity, culture and belonging. Offering DofE within a place of worship gave them a space where they could grow, develop and step outside their comfort zone, while still feeling connected to their heritage and community. That combination is powerful and made me join the team as a leader to support young people.

My time as a Youth Ambassador reinforced my belief that DofE is transformative. When young people are supported, challenged and believed in, they grow in ways they often do not expect. As a Leader, I strive to create that same environment — one where they feel supported, empowered and capable of achieving more than they thought possible.

4. What’s your favourite part of being a DofE Leader?

Without doubt, it’s talking to young people and seeing their journeys unfold.

As part of my leadership role, I became a Bronze and Silver Expedition Assessor. Having led expeditions, it’s incredible to witness their teamwork, problem-solving and resilience during challenging moments. You see confidence grow in real time.

Watching them on expedition often takes me back to my own journey — the friendships built, the challenges faced, the lessons learned. It’s great to a see a glimpse of the journey I had through them.

There is something very rewarding about realising that these opportunities genuinely change lives. The skills they build now will carry them into university, employment and adulthood. You are not just overseeing an award — you are shaping futures.

5. What advice would you give to a new DofE Leader?

I still remember being a 15-year-old struggling to settle into a new school and environment. My DofE Manager believed in me before I fully believed in myself. Through DofE, I was introduced to opportunities like CCF, student council and eventually becoming Head Boy. Those stepping stones shaped my confidence and direction in life.

As a DofE Leader or Manager, you have the power to make that same difference.

DofE is more than an award — it is a journey. And as Leaders and Managers, we have the privilege of walking alongside them for part of that journey.

Encourage young people to step out of their comfort zone. Give them opportunities to grow. Be consistent. Build rapport. Listen when they speak. Support them when they struggle.

Sometimes, what feels like a small act of encouragement from you can become a defining moment in their lives.

The DofE Manager’s Toolkit explains what’s expected of delivery teams, and the key responsibilities involved in managing a safe and rewarding experience for young people.