Stuart Strachen and George Navrady-Pitcher will be representing Dorset and Wilts Wing of the Air Training Corps on International Exchanges to Canada and Hong Kong.

Stuart was the only Cadet to be selected from Dorset and Wilts Wing for the Canada Exchange and he feels very fortunate to have been given this opportunity. He will enjoy an action packed week of activities which will include, a visit to the Banff Sulphur Hot Pool, gliding at Netook Gliding Centre, a visit to Waterton National Park and a tour of Bomber Command Museum of Canada.

Stuart explains what he hopes to achieve from his experience.

I hope to improve my confidence and leadership skills, whilst also meeting new friends and being introduced to a variety of cultures and personalities from across the globe. The award will allow me to experience an array of new and exciting adventurous activities and also allow me to demonstrate team working skills within a group of like-minded individuals.

George is one of eight Cadets selected for the exchange trip to Hong Kong. A committed supporter of the JTYAF, George has volunteered at several events including the Dorset Plane Pull and the JTYAF Companion Dog Show. Last year he also supported a fellow cadet in a fifty mile hike to help raise funds for the JTYAF. George is dedicated to the Air Training Corps and his application is fully endorsed by the staff at his squadron.

The opportunity to take part in the exchange to Hong Kong will help George stand out when applying for university.

The award will give me the opportunity to see a different country and experience the culture there. It will also show that I have experience of working and living with people from all over the world... I will share this experience at Cadets, doing presentations about my trip once I return.

George and Stuart have both been working hard to raise money for their trips and the JTYAF is delighted to provide them with funding for airfares, travel insurance and uniform.