My name is Lauren and I’m 17 years old. I live in a small coastal town in West Wales called Aberystwyth, where I’m currently studying at Coleg Ceredigion doing an extended diploma in media as well as an A level in Biology through the open college. My hobbies are sewing and playing the guitar.

What would your dream job be?
My dream job is to work within the criminal justice system to support children and teenagers to prevent them from getting into crime, as well as working with criminals to support them with their transition from jail back to ‘everyday society’.

Why did you come to the Catalyst Bootcamp?
I came to the Catalyst Boot Camp to further my knowledge about sustainability and form positive relationships with other strong like minded young women.

What was your overall experience of it?
At first I was sceptical as I was nervous about being in an environment that I wasn’t used to with other young women but that quickly changed. I met so many amazing people and learnt so many new things. The experience was life changing and has provided me with a more positive outlook on life.

What three things did you like about it most?
The three things I enjoyed most were; creating our sustainability pitch (which I was surprised because public speaking used to be one of my biggest fears), the Pukka Tea tour and the African dancing.

Has it had any impact on your day-to-day behaviour?
The bootcamp has provided me with some much needed confidence to tackle daily life and take on new challenges without fear.

What would you like to say to our programme sponsors?
I would like to thank them for providing myself and other amazing young women with such a positive opportunity. The support and love that I felt on that bootcamp is something I will never forget and I hope that they continue to provide more opportunities for young women to grow in the future.

If you were recommending the Bootcamp to a friend, why would tell them they should do it?
I’ve already recommended the course to almost every young woman I’ve met. I would tell them that even if they aren’t necessarily interested in sustainability the course provides some much needed positivity.

How has the mentoring helped you?

While it’s difficult to meet my tutor with such a long distance arrangement she is such a wonderful and inspirational person who has supported me through making my decisions and tackling my sustainability goals.

To book a place on this year’s programme visit www.catalysechange.com For all enquiries contact Traci Lewis, director, Catalyse Change CIC traci@catalysechange.com