Danny's Leader Interview

Our trustee for volunteers, Neil, asks Danny (left) what it's like being a leader with OutdoorLads. 

What's your name, what type of leader are you now and where are you from?

Hi I'm Danny, I’m 24 years old from Manchester, I am an Indoor and Outdoor climbing leader, bouldering leader and a Hostel Leader for OutdoorLads.

What motivated you to become an OutdoorLads Leader?

OutdoorLads has given me and so many other members so many opportunities to try new experiences and find new adventures that I couldn't have dreamt of before joining! What we all often forget is that all the leaders in ODL are all volunteers  They are not paid to go that extra mile, they do it off their own back, allowing others to share in the great experiences and memories. So my reasoning behind becoming a leader of several areas in ODL allowed me to give back to the charity that has changed my life and my attitude to it.

What's the one piece of advice you would give to someone thinking about becoming leader?

Just do it. It will be the best thing you'll ever do. The moment when you're running your own event and you realise that you have made a huge impact on people’s lives.

How was your assessment?

I've done a few assessments now for different areas, and assessed people too! Every time, the leader assessing me has been helpful and supportive, offering advice and guidance every step of the way to ensure you get as much support as you need. It also doesn't stop there, throughout your time as a leader with ODL you are supported by other leaders, area & regional coordinators and our fantastic office team, Liam and Harry who are always on hand to help!

What are you looking forward to organising as your future events?

I have been lucky enough to lead 3 hostels now with my partner Tom with many more in the pipeline! Fingers crossed for a Skiddaw House 2019 in the snow again! I am also leading several Outdoor climbing events over the coming months as well as the regular sessions here in Manchester.

Lastly and just for fun….If you were a cocktail, what would you be and why? 

I couldn't just be one cocktail - So I’ll just take the whole bar, it's much more fun!