A group of Duke of Edinburgh Gold Level participants will venture to Africa today for a four-day journey and two charitable projects.

The 15 Bermudian students will fly to Lusaka, Zambia, to tackle the Walkin’ Wild Zambia Gold expedition route, which stretches from the Muchinga Escarpment and through the Zambezi River Valley.

Karen Simmons, project director, said: “The participants have been working hard to prepare for the trip.

“They have been taking part in regular physical training sessions including walking with the Bermuda Walking Club and have completed two practice journeys.

“In addition, they have attended theory classes to learn skills in navigation, compass reading and how to be fully self-sufficient on a four-day long trek.”

The 15 young people taking part in the expedition include students from the Berkeley Institute, the Bermuda College, Bermuda High School, Saltus Grammar School and Warwick Academy.

In addition to their journey, the students will be working with a child youth centre in Lusaka and another school in a rural community.

A Duke of Edinburgh spokeswoman said the participants will help build desks for the schools and visit an elephant orphanage to learn about animal welfare and conservation efforts in Zambia.

Johanna Douglas, chair of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, said: “I wish the Gold Group well on their adventurous journey and residential projects.

“I know first hand how excited the group must be to embark on such an adventure.

“I would encourage the participants to go with an open mind and embrace this experience along with the culture exchange. It will be life-changing.”