A local student will be challenged physically and mentally while hiking more than 200km across South Africa next month.

Raleigh International Bermuda announced that 18-year-old Mycah Maragh will participate in a five-week expedition in Hoedspruit.

A statement said Raleigh programme alumnae KyAsia Scott-Fishenden and Keri Pacheco are helping the CedarBridge Academy student prepare for the journey.

It added that Ms Maragh will take part in community and environmental projects before hiking through Drakensberg Mountains.

She said: “I wanted to do this expedition to gain new experiences, meet new people and challenge myself by stepping outside of my comfort zone.”

Ms Maragh added: “One thing I've already learnt is that some people have less than I do, but they are still happy and make the best of what they have.”

Denae Burchall, executive director at Raleigh International Bermuda, said: “One of the things we are most proud of at Raleigh is seeing young people challenge themselves in ways they never thought possible.

“Mycah has embraced this opportunity with enthusiasm, curiosity and determination.

“We are excited to see her take this next step in her journey and experience the personal growth that comes from stepping outside of her comfort zone and immersing herself in a completely new environment.”

Ms Maragh hopes to raise $2,500 as she prepares for the journey.

Members of the public can support by visiting raleigh.bm/donate or transferring money to HSBC account 010-120756-001