Who… Outward Bound

What they do… Outward Bound are a not-for-profit outdoors pursuit organisation who have been running outdoor adventure programmes since 1962. Based in Marlborough Sounds Outward Bound aim to uncover the true potential of our communities through experiential outdoor learning.

Their project… Outward Bound's Southern Cross course, developed in partnership with the Human Rights Commission, is a 21-day course designed to enable young people of all nationalities to connect and explore their identities through the outdoors.

"As a young refugee I never thought that I would get a chance to do something like OB and now that I have this chance I am not going to waste it. Thanks to you." - Vira, (Age 20)

The journey… In early February 14 young people, aged between 18 - 25 traveled to the Outward Bound School in Anakiwa to attend the Southern Cross course. The group included young people from organisations such as the Baha'i community, Refugees as Survivors, Youthline, Ngāti Whātua, NZ Chinese Youth Trust, and the Muslim Association. Over 21 days the participants were put through their paces with a series of physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging activities. Activities included kayaking, hiking, sailing, high ropes, rock climbing, and a half marathon. Prior to the trip the participants were asked to document their goals and outcomes for the course and the Outward Bound team discovered some common objectives among the group. The students wanted to learn how to work collaboratively, explore cultural diversity and identity, make new connections, and identify goals for the future.

"Words cannot express the gratitude I have for you for making it possible for me to attend OB. This course has definitely changed my life for the better and opened my eyes to a whole new world of possibility." - Saleha (Age 18)

The outcomes… Outward Bound were proud to report that their 2020 Southern Cross intake responded well to the tasks set out for them, achieving a sense of community, resilience, and identity. In their feedback the participants demonstrated their gratitude for the experience and the instructors witnessed an incredible growth in each student. Throughout the course the group displayed acts of compassion, resilience, leadership, honesty, determination, and discipline.