Earl of Wessex Praises Youth at Portsmouth’s Motiv8 Cycle Hub
The Earl of Wessex visited Motiv8’s Community Cycle Hub in Portsmouth to celebrate the life-changing impact of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). The visit highlights the charity’s success as it marks its Diamond Anniversary in 2024.
Transforming Young Lives for 60 Years
Since 1956, the DofE Award has helped millions of 14 to 24-year-olds across the UK and beyond build vital life skills and boost employability. Participants set personal challenges, develop practical abilities, and gain experience readying them for the working world.
Motiv8 has been a key partner for the DofE in Portsmouth since being tasked by Portsmouth City Council two years ago. They’ve expanded DofE opportunities through Open Centres, reaching young people often missed by school programs.
Bicycle Recycling: Giving Back and Gaining Skills
Motiv8 also runs Bicycle Recycling, a social enterprise launched after the 2011 civil unrest. This community business creates jobs and training for young people through bike refurbishment and sale.
- 2012: First shop opened in Gosport
- 2014: Portsmouth Community Cycle Hub launched
- 2016: Naval Base Cycle Hub followed
Bicycle Recycling helps young people complete vital DofE skill and volunteering sections, while cycling partnerships support the physical and expedition challenges.
Earl of Wessex Champions DofE’s Diamond Year
As a Trustee and Gold Award holder, HRH The Earl of Wessex is a long-standing DofE champion. He’s touring the UK to spotlight volunteer efforts and participant successes during the charity’s 60th anniversary.
“It’s fantastic to see Motiv8 and Bicycle Recycling being recognised for their outstanding work,” said Peter Westgarth, CEO of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. “Huge thanks to the volunteers who help young people make the most of this wonderful opportunity.”
DofE Diamond Challenge: A Challenge for All Ages
While the official Award targets 14-24 year olds, 2024’s Diamond Anniversary launched the DofE Diamond Challenge. This invites people of all ages to set and smash their own goals—whether an adventure, skill, or personal achievement—sharing in the Award’s transformative spirit.
The Earl will continue his nationwide tour celebrating DofE achievements until October, shining a spotlight on youth and community success stories across the UK.
