2023 Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge Scholarship recipient, David Eskander presented to the Board of Penrith RSL Club last month, sharing his adventure with the Directors.“We would like to take this opportunity to thank David, and his family, for their enthusiasm and passion for this program. You can follow David’s journey at Eskander – Kokoda LSC 2023.”

Penrith RSL Club is calling for applications for the Kokoda Youth Leadership Challenge. The challenge takes young community leaders on a 10 day trek across the 155km Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea. Overseen by the RSL & Services Clubs Association, the program is aimed at creating greater awareness among young people of the Diggers sacrifice on the Kokoda Campaign, and to ensure that traditions live on. At the same time, aiming to instill a commitment to community service, enhancing personal development and encouraging participants to become future leaders in their own communities.

Overseen by the RSL & Services Clubs Association, KYLC aims to create an awareness of the campaigns, sacrifices and incredibly gruelling conditions under which Australian Soldiers fought in Papua New Guinea during WW11.

KYLC is extremely challenging physically, mentally and emotionally, so applicants must demonstrate a strong desire to participate in the program by conducting personal research on the campaign and be willing to commit to a physical training program to prepare for the trip. This program is open to local youths aged between 17 to 25 years. Applications are now open.

“It breaks you down, tears you to your knees, but then it builds you back up again.” Brendon Speechley, a former participant.

“Once in a lifetime, one that I am so grateful to have been given and one that will forever be kept in my memory. I can honestly say this has been the most rewarding, informative and emotional experience of my life.” Ms Amber Walker, a Kokoda Trek participant.