DofE in the Czech Republic is launching a new campaign to raise awareness of the programme. Short spots will be running on social media over the coming weeks with the tagline "Don't let others decide for you". The campaign also includes a series of graphics starring the dofaces themselves. First we present the golden dofa, and now also the leader, Magdalena Retychová, who starred in the spot.
Golden dofačka Magdalena Retychová
Do you remember when you started at the DofE? What attracted you to the programme?
I first heard about the DofE in my English class at school, where some of the participants introduced it to us. I was very interested in the whole idea of the programme. It took me quite a long time to sway and join the programme, but it was definitely the best decision I made. Being able to set a goal and go for it was something that was appealing to me. I wanted to try new things, so combining that with the DofE was ideal.
Your DofE journey is quite exemplary. You've passed all levels, you're currently waiting for the gold ceremony later this year. If you had to sum it up, what has the DofE given you?
I was able to try new activities in a variety of areas and discovered my love for sports and handicrafts. Thanks to the DofE I made new friendships that I still maintain today. The other participants and I always enjoy reminiscing about our adventures together. I also shouldn't forget my better time-management, where I was always able to find time for all activities.
How do you evaluate your participation in the programme now?
It was one of the best decisions I ever made. My only regret is that I didn't start sooner. It's been a great experience and I've hit rock bottom in places, but seeing the progression itself is really satisfying.
Could you briefly summarize what you did at each level?
My activities were really varied. I knitted a scarf as part of my skills, embroidered and then took up machine sewing on gold. In bronze, I took pole dancing lessons while playing sports. I wanted to continue with it at subsequent levels but unfortunately the covid came on so I started running at silver and walking at gold. When I was volunteering I was always tutoring, it was English and maths tutoring.
Thanks to DofE, I'm more able to talk to people I don't know
What are the most important things you have learned in the DofE?
I know how to set a goal and go for it. I'm using that now in college, where you really need to be able to schedule your tasks.
Do you feel that you have changed or moved on as a result of the DofE?
I'm sure. I'm not afraid to go headfirst into things and talk more with people I don't know that well. I was pretty much the only one in my class to join the DofE, so I didn't have a "class buddy" with me on any of the expeditions. But it did eventually force me to meet new people.
Do you think you will use some of the experience you gained in the DofE in the future? Or have you already used some?
Yeah, I still sew on the machine to this day. I recently made a table runner and part of a cosplay costume for a con. I'm back to pole dancing, and all the basics are coming more easily.
Are you able to continue some of the activities you did in the DofE? For example, the handwork that you did as part of the skills?
Yes, I still enjoy handwork, I just moved from knitting needles, needles and embroidery circles to EVA foam (note: soft, flexible foam), scalpel and glue, with which I make all sorts of costume components. It's different materials, but knowing how to schedule my work and follow a plan is still there. It's stayed with me just like the sewing machine, which I don't have as much time for now because of school, but I still love to set it up and make something nice.
Magdalena Retychová at the sewing machine.
If you could choose one or two experiences that you like to remember in relation to the DofE, what would they be?
The first thing that comes to mind is definitely the silver expedition, during which we slept in an open-air hunger room. Around five in the morning, a strong wind with rain picked up and we had to take shelter in the mezzanine, where we slept until morning. Despite the minor hiccups, it was an event with great people and an amazing atmosphere that brought us very close together.
The feeling when I finished my first skirt, which I put pockets and a zipper in, and the skirt fit like a glove was unforgettable. I'll gladly wear the skirt again today.
I now have more respect and reverence for DofE leaders
Your journey with the DofE didn't end with the completion of the gold level. Why did you decide to join the DofE online as a leader?
When this opportunity was presented to me, I knew it was something I would love to do. I see it as kind of coming full circle in my DofE journey, where I can help others fall in love with the DofE.
Now you're leading six dofaks, what's the role change from participant to leader?
Sometimes even today I find it strange to be on the other side. I was quite nervous at first, but I believe I've gotten better at it. The DofE has a great team who have taken me on and have been able to help me with any problems I may have, for which I am very, very grateful to each and every one of them. I probably didn't realise at first what all the leaders have to deal with, it's admirable, I definitely have more respect and reverence now for everyone who enables young people to get involved in the DofE.
What do you see as the advantage of having gone through the DofE yourself and now continuing as a leader?
It's definitely in being able to give the participants (not only) my personal advice and tips in the execution of the program. Already at the first meeting we have something to say to each other and I feel such a connection between us. Throwing yourself into something new is scary, but I've been down a similar path before and that, I believe, is something priceless.
What is the most difficult thing for you as a DofE leader?
The very first contact with the new dofaks is probably the trickiest to this day. Each new entrant comes in with a different understanding of how the whole DofE works, so the overall initial explanation of what to expect is the hardest. Subsequent meetings are then easier, with everyone having to communicate a little differently, whether it's the pace or the actual verbal and non-verbal expression.
And what has this new role given you?
It opened up new possibilities I never dreamed of. I met a lot of interesting people. I got involved in new projects, like Ambassador Academywhere I not only developed my knowledge and experience, but also met other inspiring and passionate dofaks. The leadership role has also given me a meaningful and fulfilling way to spend my free time, which is always useful.
How time consuming is that? Do you manage to combine it well with your studies?
I started as a supervisor in September, which means the semester has barely started. So I had plenty of time to start and welcome the first dofacs. Starting in the middle of the semester would definitely be more challenging. I'm glad everything came together so nicely and I managed the initial uncertainties and organizational complications in a time when I didn't have to deal with so much schoolwork and homework.
I am certainly very lucky, as all my dofaces are incredibly skilled, honest and independent. Over Christmas we wished each other happy holidays and I tried not to overwhelm them with anything, after all... it was Christmas. Of course, I try to give each of them written feedback each week on the progress of their activities. Sometimes we call each other too, but it's been more challenging to call over exam time now, but they're all carrying on beautifully and I'm very happy for each of them.
What would you say to someone who is hesitant about joining the DofE?
Go for it! You don't get anything for trying. You'll be able to take on things you've been afraid to do before, and maybe you'll find something that fulfills you.
