The Next BIG Adventure

Hi everyone,

My name is Martina and I’m from Kent. I’m really excited to share my story with you. I’m raising money for my Scout group’s Next BIG Adventure. Some of our scouts have never been further than the Kent border for a Scout camp and some have never camped! I want to change this.

A little bit about me and my journey: I’m a scout leader trying to make a difference. I joined the Scouts when I was 10.5 years old. I’m nearly 34 years of age now and have been apart of the Scouting movement for just over 23 years. Scouting has been a huge part of my life and has given me amazing experiences to chat about.

I grew up in East London with 4 siblings. I was diagnosed with Autism aged 19 and have struggled with life (long before). Going without a diagnosis through school was extremely challenging and made learning difficult. My parents did fight for a diagnosis long before but like some people today they didn’t have much luck with lack of services available. When Scouts opened their doors to me back in 2001 I gained so much confidence, actually made real friends, I learned important life skills even after I left scouting, and had the chance to take part in some truly memorable adventures including hiking from Norway to Sweden and then we sailed back to London on a tall ship! I gained the highest awards, a scout could obtain from a young age of 19. It’s helped me grow into a more independent and capable person. Although there are every day challenges I struggle with, there are many things I can do that others can’t. Without the help and support of my Scout group I would have never been able to experience a 1/3 of the adventures that I had. This makes me extremely proud and I want to help other young people experience the same feeling when fundraising for their next big adventure!

What’s the fundraiser: I’m trying to raise money for the next BIG adventure for my scouts. This will be an unforgettable experience - an opportunity to meet scouts from across the country at the next Jamboree! It’s not just about the fun, though - this trip will open up new opportunities and possibilities for some young people. The Scouts are currently aiming to raise at least £500 each to make sure that everyone can join in the next BIG adventure.

Inspired by their fundraising efforts. I am hoping to try to raise £3,000 to help fund their next BIG adventure to KIJ 2025. I will be trying to do 3 races in 2025 - 2 x 10K runs and a half marathon. This is a huge challenge for me as most people know I don’t like to run but I’m also going to try and get a PR too! I’ve said if the donations raised goes above £500 I will do one 10K race in fancy dress of my scouts choosing!

I also have a website Paratina.co.uk with every product purchased a donation will be automatically added to my cause.

I would be extremely grateful if you would support me by donating to my fundraiser. Every little bit helps, and if you’re not able to donate, sharing my fundraiser with your family & friends would also be greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my fundraising page and your support.