Perth Grammar pupil signs up for Kenyan expedition

Mar 12 2010 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTH Grammar School pupil Laurie Carruthers has signed up for an exciting three-week World Challenge Expedition to Kenya.

And she has a major fundraising challenge on her hands before heading for African next year.

The third year pupil enjoys the outdoor life but is bracing herself for a culture shock.

Laurie (14) explained: “It involves a week of trekking – hopefully up Mount Kenya – a week of voluntary work helping to build a local school or orphanage and a week of other experiences, such as whitewater rafting and safari.

“I was interested in signing up as soon as I heard about the challenge. I really enjoy travelling and seeing different parts of the world and experiencing their culture.

“I knew this would be a massive opportunity to travel somewhere amazing and it will be something I’ll never forget.”

The expedition will be challenging in many ways, with two teams planning the itinerary, working out budgets, buying and cooking their own food, organising own transport and taking turns at the leadership role.

Laurie said: “Individually, we each have to raise £3000 to fund the trip. It’s a huge challenge but I’m really determined to do it.”

Laurie lists hill-walking and camping among her hobbies and she has signed up for the bronze Duke of Edinburgh award.

“Looking ahead to next year, I really hope we are able to climb Mount Kenya. I think it would be a fantastic experience and the sense of accomplishment would be incredible.

“Aside from the trek, I'm extremely excited at the prospect of working with the local people during the voluntary section as I think it will be rewarding and fun teaching the children English.

“It will also allow me to appreciate the differences and hardships of their lifestyles compared to our own.”

After the summer break, Laurie will embark on a training expedition with a World Challenge leader to assess individual’s fitness levels and foster teamwork and outdoor skills.

She explained: “I have many fundraising ideas and events planned which will hopefully help me reach my target.

“The first one is a Spring Clean Sale which is going to be held on Saturday in the Luncarty Memorial Hall from 11am-2pm.

“I have been trying to encourage people to donate their unwanted stuff through flyers, posters and other publicity. We will sell it all on the day.

“I really hope people will come along, pick up a bargain and help me raise some money. There will be something for everyone – ethnic stalls, raffle, tombola, refreshments, clothes, books and lots more.”

Laurie, who is keen on attracting business sponsors, is also tackling sponsored Munro bashing with her mum, Margaret.

She said: “We’re aiming to climb a minimum of 15 Munros by the end of the summer and I’m in the process of setting up a Justgiving site so that people can sponsor or donate online.”