Photo comp: Sebastian Alexander Tuma, Switzerland
Sebastian Alexander Tuma
Award Level:
Silver
Favourite memory of the Award:
My favorite memory of the award was most certainly facing the end of the 8 hour hike on the seconds day. I shoulders where completely destroyed and weak, in contrast however my minds was emptier than it ever was. Walking past many waterfalls facing huge mountains left and right, being chased by cows and goats and last but definitely not the least reaching the summit and eating our warmly made lunch on the head of the rocky giants of Switzerland.
Age:
15
Biggest challenge from doing the Award:
Starting and stepping fut of the arrival of an early train we rode upon towards a small village, and knowing that the road ahead does not have a finish and does not include any guarantee that it will lead you directly to your destination. That first step forces every brain cell to fall under discomfort, that second step however a sign of confidence and seeking the discomfort. The pain of walking at a high pace and maintaining a pulse of 170 at all times, spikes fear throughout the hike! I however did not find the fear and did not stop once regretting the experience, that I love. The pain that I enjoy of seeking discomfort and trying something NEW everyday.
Country:
Switzerland
Have you continued any of your Award activities? If so, what:
Last year before the Russo-Ukrainien War I began to learn Russian, and the basics of the Azbuca. When meeting a refugee from Ukraine wandering cluelessly around the local train station through my past knowledge and constant reminder and repetition of vocabulary, I was able to point the refugee into the right direction using a language I had learned last year. The man looked at my straight into my eyes and starred deep into my souls and replied "Spasiba" (спаси́бі). Having the ability to warm someone heart in a time of crisis and panic is something incredible and I thank the Duke of Edinburgh Award for giving me that opportunity.
Tell us the story behind your photo:
As my friends and I traitorously slowly and gradually peaked towards the overhanding cross be have been drooling upon ever since the bottom of the valley, we stopped looked around and discovered we where smooshed left and right by huge giants made of rock that made our problems so incredible small and forced us to take a longer break than just 5 min.
Award Role:
Participant