I would like to express my gratitude towards the Jack Bloor Fund for the help it has given me in receiving my Mountain Leader qualification by contributing to my Mountain Leader Training costs. For me this has been more than a qualification – it has been a life changing journey that has developed me personally and professionally and altered the course of my life. Along the way there have been amazing experiences in the mountains but also a constant element of risk for someone from a lower income background spending so much money and time working to get a qualification that doesn’t necessarily result in financial reward. Failure was not an option!
My passion and love for the mountains have been the reason I managed to get here – I know that if I had the option I would spend nearly every day on the rocks or in the hills. I have explored so many locations, made some amazing friendships, developed as a person and a leader, and moved three hundred odd miles across the country to Aviemore where I’ve learned a lot about the mountains in all seasons and conditions.
I completed my training and assessments with Bryn Williams Mountaineering in North Wales – Bryn and Sam were really brilliant and supportive and I would not have gone with any other provider.
I know that for me accessibility and inclusivity will always remain at the heart of my professional ethos no matter what direction I go in. I know that with this qualification I will be able to share my passion for mountain sports and being in the hills with people of all backgrounds. I particularly want to focus on bringing the things that I’ve learned in the hills to people who have faced barriers or disadvantages in life, and also on the further development of my mountaineering skills – and exploring the world! I’ve learned a lot, but there’s way more to find out.
Jack Bloor Race & Fund 