Few cadets have had the privilege of representing the Royal Air Force Air Cadets on such a diverse stage. As a Cadet Warrant Officer, I have had the honour to win the Dacre Sword in 2026 (awarded to the top ATC Cadet), I have read live on national television at Westminster Abbey for the VE Day 80th commemorations and become the first Cadet to host the RAF Air Cadets Awards.
In the short four years as a Cadet, I have tried every activity under the sun; from being a fieldcraft instructor to leading my own car crash first aid scenarios, and even squealing for 7 minutes straight while solo piloting a glider.
None of this would have been possible without the word ‘yes’. It is the most important word if you wish to embrace Cadets to its fullest potential. So try something new. Push yourself, because you have no idea what you could do, the sky is not the limit, the only limit is you.
My highlight
One lesson that has stayed with me is that FAIL stands for "First Attempt In Learning."
Every setback, every mistake, and every challenge has been an opportunity to grow rather than a reason to give up. The moments that tested me the most ultimately shaped my resilience, strengthened my character, and taught me lessons that success alone never could. Progress is rarely a straight path, certainly not in a glider and true achievement comes not from never failing, but from having the courage to learn.
More than any badge, qualification, or rank, this mindset is my greatest achievement and one I will carry with me long after my cadet journey comes to an end.