An 18-year-old from Dudley has been named as one of just 35 youth ambassadors for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

Kea Masters, who has completed the award, will represent young people and share their insights on issues affecting them.

The group will speak at events, meet parliamentarians, and contribute to decisions shaping the charity's work.

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Kea's journey with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award began with climbing, a sport they had never tried before.

They said: "Climbing as part of my DofE was a great excuse to go regularly as a family.

"I still go now, it’s a brilliant way to compete with myself and my own fears, and it’s a fun way to improve my teamworking skills."

For the Bronze award, they volunteered at a zoo, fulfilling a childhood dream.

The experience, however, made them reconsider a career with animals due to the hard work and physical labour involved.

Kea said: "I loved working at the zoo, it helped me hugely with my confidence as I had to give some talks about various animals, like spiders and lorikeets."

They also explored lifeguarding for the Skills section, completing a course for the Bronze award and continuing to an official qualification for the Silver award.

Kea is now employed as a lifeguard at a local swimming pool.

They said: "The DofE has helped me broaden my perspective and see what’s out there – and it’s certainly given me a stronger sense of adventure.

"As a Youth Ambassador, I'm excited to push myself more out of my comfort zone and gain skills that will help me with my future."

Ashley Williams, UK youth engagement manager at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said: "Kea is one of many young people who has achieved incredible things through their DofE.

"I am excited to see the positive impact our new cohort of Youth Ambassadors make this year."