For Rowan, the Explorer Belt in Bavaria was a big step outside his comfort zone.
After 11 years in Scouts, he signed up wanting to explore somewhere new, meet people and try something different but arriving in Bavaria, he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to complete the challenge ahead.
What followed is exactly what Scouting and our Change Makers series is all about.
Through long days, sweltering conditions and the ups and downs of working as a new team, Rowan pushed himself further than he thought possible. In doing so, he built resilience, confidence and independence, and began to see challenges in a completely different way.
His story highlights the real impact of Scouting – supporting young people to grow through experience, overcome challenges and come away stronger, more capable and more self-assured.
We’re pleased to share Rowan’s experience of the Explorer Belt, in his own words.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Rowan, 17 years old, I like sports and I have been in scouts for 11 years and I am currently in Beast ESU Explorer group.
Last summer you took part in the Explorer Belt trip to Bavaria. What made you decide to sign up for the adventure?
I decided to take part in the Bavaria Explorer Belt because I want to explore the nature and culture of Bavaria and to meet new people and make some friends.
What was did you think when you arrived in Bavaria?
I felt nervous and scared and worried whether I would manage to complete the Explorer Belt, but I actually did manage to finish it and then I thought wow I doubted myself a bit too much. Â I was also worried about our budget for food and where we would sleep.
What was it like being away for so long with so many different people that you hadn’t known for that long?
I found it pretty stressful at first, because there were some disagreements and a lot of emotional moments and a bit of gossip and tiny arguments but, overall, everyone got along and we managed to resolve most of our problems.
The Explorer Belt is known as the “challenge of a lifetime”. What was the biggest challenge you faced during the trip?
That’s a tough question actually because I did have to face quite a few challenges. The challenge that was the hardest to face was probably all of the walking distance and the heat, which made it a lot more difficult to walk such long distances under the scorching son
Did the experience change you in any way?
It made me realise that I can be more independent than I thought, and I am capable of many things in life. I learned that you may face many challenges in life and, sometimes, there’s nothing you can do about it, so it is best to try to get all of your problems out of the way and keep on going forward.
Rowan is a dedicated and capable Explorer Scout who shows excellent determination and focus when he applies himself with tasks he enjoys. His confidence continues to grow and he is beginning to recognise his own strengths and potential. He engages enthusiastically in activities that interest him and is a friendly, approachable member of the group who gets along very well with his fellow Explorers.
What did you learn about working as part of a team during the expedition?
I learnt that somethings cannot be done on your own and you will sometimes need some help. And sometimes you will have to help people back in return. Working together and as a team makes things so much easier for everyone.
Did you meet anyone or experience anything in Bavaria that really stuck with you?
I experienced how beautiful nature can be. I also learned to stop always worrying about things and try to be positive instead.
If you had to describe the Explorer Belt experience in three words, what would they be?
Lessons of life.
What would you say to the new group of Explorers who are going this year and what is your top tip?
I would say you will face a lot of challenges whist on the trip, but it is very rewarding and they just need to be prepared and believe in their capabilities as a group. It will definitely be rewarding and change their lives.
What’s the one thing you’ll always remember about the Bavaria adventure?
I learnt that you will meet some nice people and some not very nice people, and you will face some problems and issues because nothing always goes to plan and you will not win at everything but that’s a lesson to learn in life.
We are incredibly proud of this friendly and positive young person who has shown amazing courage and determination. Despite facing personal challenges, Rowan pushed himself to step outside his comfort zone, embracing new experiences and mixing confidently with others from different backgrounds.
His journey in Bavaria wasn’t just about the adventure but also about growth, friendship, and resilience. Well done, Rowan, for showing us all the power of a positive attitude and the strength to take on new challenges!
Here’s to many more adventures ahead!
