I’ve always loved the outdoors, even as a child, I believe we are born to explore life and this was how the human race has evolved over time; asking, questions, going out, exploring, seeking, and finding answers. I still recall my first visit to Nigeria’s stunning city of Jos for my National Youth Service (NYSC) camping. Nigeria has a program called the NYSC that places recent graduates in different cities or zones of the country so they can get to know the people and cultures there. I still clearly recall how in awe I was when I visited Jos. I had never seen anything like it before. Mountains, hills, and magnificent landscapes. Although I was certain that a life spent outdoors was for me, Nigeria presented certain obstacles, particularly the problem of insecurity.
In January 2022, when I found myself in Scotland, I felt I was in the perfect location. The stunning Scottish outdoors was mine to enjoy, but as with everything else in life, some level of guidance is necessary.
Sometime in February, my friend Keme informed me that he would be going hiking with a group. He bought some hiking gears. Although I couldn’t join the hike at the time since I had other commitments, I thought that was incredibly interesting. However, I seized the chance to go on a hike as soon as it presented itself in April. I joined the team and was welcomed into the Black Scottish Adventurers group, just like every other new adventurer. A succession of messages with advice on hiking gears and preparation for the walk then came. I can still picture going to buy my hiking boots and other gears. I was giddy with anticipation and anxious to go to the hills.
We arrived early at the designated car park on the day of my first hike. The group had already been given the itinerary and the precise location of the meeting place. I’ll give credit for planning and organization to the BSA’s founders, Joshua and Enoch. Ophelie deserves special mention for her energetic coordination and, of course, for making sure everyone gets the greatest shots. When you look through the photos, you can always relive the experience since she captures the complete adventure in detail.
My first hike was at Ben A’nn, and I found it to be really challenging but fun as well. On top of just enjoying the activity of hiking, you get to meet new people because there were more than 30 of us on that hike. What else is there to do when there is poor network reception in the hills? You learn about people through conversations with them. You connect! Additionally, it goes beyond the hike. It’s important to remember that no matter how difficult a hike is, the feeling at the summit is more pleasant and rewarding.
We usually go to a nearby Loch (a lake in Scotland) after the climb to have barbecue and play games. This barbecue is not your typical barbecue; in fact, I think the recipe ought to be protected by a patent. You can ask anyone who has eaten this barbecue if you have any doubts. The Loch offers extra chances for networking while you’re there. It’s also important to note the mental peace that comes from being in nature. It has a paradoxical vibe about it. Although the hike is difficult, it helps you to unwind. The natural world has a way of calming you down.
With the team, I’ve gone on hikes that were more challenging and even nerve-wracking. But the truth is; no matter how difficult things become, we always reach the top and do it in style. We follow the BSA style. We approach exploration in an unusual way. We enjoy our exploration while creating a sense of community and friendship. According to an African saying, “If You Want to Go Fast, Go Alone. If You Want to Go Far, Go Together.”
We keep exploring together and we keep Living!
As we say in BSA, “This is Living!”
In January 2022, when I found myself in Scotland, I felt I was in the perfect location. The stunning Scottish outdoors was mine to enjoy, but as with everything else in life, some level of guidance is necessary.
Sometime in February, my friend Keme informed me that he would be going hiking with a group. He bought some hiking gears. Although I couldn’t join the hike at the time since I had other commitments, I thought that was incredibly interesting. However, I seized the chance to go on a hike as soon as it presented itself in April. I joined the team and was welcomed into the Black Scottish Adventurers group, just like every other new adventurer. A succession of messages with advice on hiking gears and preparation for the walk then came. I can still picture going to buy my hiking boots and other gears. I was giddy with anticipation and anxious to go to the hills.
We arrived early at the designated car park on the day of my first hike. The group had already been given the itinerary and the precise location of the meeting place. I’ll give credit for planning and organization to the BSA’s founders, Joshua and Enoch. Ophelie deserves special mention for her energetic coordination and, of course, for making sure everyone gets the greatest shots. When you look through the photos, you can always relive the experience since she captures the complete adventure in detail.
My first hike was at Ben A’nn, and I found it to be really challenging but fun as well. On top of just enjoying the activity of hiking, you get to meet new people because there were more than 30 of us on that hike. What else is there to do when there is poor network reception in the hills? You learn about people through conversations with them. You connect! Additionally, it goes beyond the hike. It’s important to remember that no matter how difficult a hike is, the feeling at the summit is more pleasant and rewarding.
We usually go to a nearby Loch (a lake in Scotland) after the climb to have barbecue and play games. This barbecue is not your typical barbecue; in fact, I think the recipe ought to be protected by a patent. You can ask anyone who has eaten this barbecue if you have any doubts. The Loch offers extra chances for networking while you’re there. It’s also important to note the mental peace that comes from being in nature. It has a paradoxical vibe about it. Although the hike is difficult, it helps you to unwind. The natural world has a way of calming you down.
With the team, I’ve gone on hikes that were more challenging and even nerve-wracking. But the truth is; no matter how difficult things become, we always reach the top and do it in style. We follow the BSA style. We approach exploration in an unusual way. We enjoy our exploration while creating a sense of community and friendship. According to an African saying, “If You Want to Go Fast, Go Alone. If You Want to Go Far, Go Together.”
We keep exploring together and we keep Living!
As we say in BSA, “This is Living!”
