Borneo
My Journey Towards Borneo: A Life-Changing Expedition
Hi, my name is Jacob, and I’m a Year 10 student at Keswick Secondary School.
I’m currently studying for my GCSEs, including Maths, English, Triple Science, German, Geography, and Computer Science, alongside completing my Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Alongside my studies, I’ve taken on an exciting and challenging opportunity that I believe will change my life.
An Ethical Journey to Borneo
In 2027, I will be travelling to Borneo for four weeks as part of Camp International’s Ethical Journeys programme. This expedition focuses on sustainable development, conservation, and cultural exchange, and I’m incredibly proud to be involved.
While in Borneo, I will be living off-grid in rural communities, experiencing a completely different way of life. I’ll be working closely with local people to support projects that make a real and lasting difference.
Community Development Projects
A major part of the expedition involves hands-on community work, including:
Building classrooms
Constructing and refurbishing community buildings
Installing water storage systems
Painting, plastering, and low-level construction
Supporting local schools and village facilities
These projects are designed to benefit the local community long after we leave, and we’ll be working side by side with residents to tackle genuine needs.
Protecting the Environment
Borneo is home to one of the most important rainforest ecosystems in the world, including endangered species such as orangutans. Conservation is a key part of the expedition, and I’ll be involved in:
Reforesting areas affected by deforestation by growing and replanting native trees
Protecting wildlife habitats
Litter-picking along the Indonesian coastline
Supporting recycling and eco-tourism initiatives
Learning about the challenges facing the rainforest and actively helping to protect it will be an unforgettable experience.
Adventure, Culture, and New Skills
This journey isn’t just about work—it’s also about learning and personal growth. Highlights include Living in a rural village and immersing myself in traditional culture, Language lessons and learning local arts and crafts and Completing a PADI Open Water Scuba Diving Course, including theory, training dives, and open water dives where I’ll see incredible marine life.
These experiences will push me out of my comfort zone and help me develop confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
I am most looking forward to being in the rainforests and seeing the wildlife, although I really love water and exploring the blue Borneo sea will be amazing too.
Fundraising for the Expedition
To raise the funds needed for this expedition, I am taking on paid jobs, Creating and selling ethical products and Fundraising within my community.
If you would like to support my adventure, you can donate on my JustGiving page
Every bit of support helps me move closer to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Looking Ahead
This expedition to Borneo is more than just a trip—it’s a chance to contribute to sustainable change, protect vital ecosystems, and grow as a person. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and excited for the journey ahead.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey and for supporting me along the way.