How
the William Dick Brown Travel Prize and Cameron Travel Scholarship helped one Former
Pupil step out of her comfort zone
After six months travelling through Africa and Asia thanks to support from the William Dick Brown Travel Prize and Cameron Travel Scholarship, I have returned home with my mind opened, my heart full, and a lifetime of stories to share.
My journey began in Africa Ghana, Tanzania and South Africa where I experienced communities whose warmth and kindness turned faraway places into temporary homes. "From welcoming us into their houses to showing us how to make fufu, a local Ghanaian delicacy, it was comforting to feel so accepted in places that once felt so distant," I wrote while reflecting on those first weeks.
"It really goes to show that you grow the most when you are outside your comfort zone - and that only inspires me to push myself even more."
The culture shock of my first time away from home was softened by the smiles of schoolchildren in Ghana, where I volunteered teaching English, and by the chance to observe Tanzanian hospitals and join conservation projects in South Africa. The children’s eagerness to learn and their laughter were unforgettable. As a keen geographer, the landscapes were just as inspiring: the endless plains of the Ngorongoro Crater, the white beaches of Zanzibar and the sunsets over Cape Town are images forever etched in my memory "All three countries are now permanently on my list to revisit I could explore them forever and still find new wonders."
The second half of my journey took me to Central Asia Sri Lanka, India and Nepal places I knew little about but left deeply moved by In Sri Lanka, I discovered an island rich in contrasts: tropical beaches, emerald hills and ancient temples. There, I volunteered at a turtle conservation sanctuary, helping protect endangered turtles and watching tiny hatchlings make their first journey to the sea moments that filled me with hope. Later, at a local dog rescue centre, I cared for stray dogs in need of medical help and shelter.
"Being such a dog-lover, it was very sad to see so many dogs in such critical conditions, but it was heart-warming knowing we did all we could as volunteers."
Before I set off for India, I was nervous. So many people have strong ideas about what India is like chaotic, crowded, polluted. But from the moment I landed in Delhi at 4am and was greeted by smiling coordinators, I knew I’d made the right decision. India exceeded all expectations: majestic temples, ancient forts, the breathtaking Taj Mahal — and the chance to teach in a school right next to the Delhi slums. "Despite the chaos and cows, it’s a country bursting with magic and life. The children’s joy in the classroom was infectious even a chaotic day could be fixed by a spontaneous water balloon fight!"
As part of a medical project, I joined local health teams bringing basic care to slum communities: taking blood pressure, checking blood sugar, and using the little Hindi I’d learned to chat with families about their health and wellbeing.
“I saw more than I ever thought I would see and ate things I never thought I’d eat but I absolutely loved the thrill and excitement of India and all it had to offer.”
Nepal was my final stop and perhaps the most spiritual part of my adventure. In Kathmandu, the Himalayas rise above the city skyline, a constant reminder of nature’s power. I volunteered at a Buddhist monastery, where monks welcomed us with open arms. Participating in the 6am and 5pm prayers gave me an insight into a life so different from my own a chance to pause, listen and learn. "The principal monk’s kindness was humbling He cooked for us late at night while we planned lessons, and spoke so openly about Buddhism and life. It was a privilege to be there."
In between lessons, I was able to fulfil a dream: hiking among the world’s highest peaks, with the support and stories of locals who were always keen to share their culture.
Looking back, I know I am not the same person who stepped on that plane six months ago. I have learned the true value of a simple smile when words fail, and how deeply human kindness can connect strangers. "The lessons I’ve learned, the skills I’ve gained and the smiles I’ve shared are truly irreplaceable. I am so grateful for the generosity that made this possible."
Ella’s story is a powerful reminder of how donor support can extend far beyond financial assistance, it can open doors to new experiences, foster global citizenship, and create lasting positive change.
The Cameron Travel Scholarship Trust: Established by former Chairman of Governors John Cameron and his wife Margaret, the Trust helps Dollar pupils travel abroad, develop life skills, and make a positive impact. It particularly supports those who might not otherwise afford such transformative experiences.
The William Dick Brown Travel Prize Trust: Founded in 1970 by William Dick Brown’s family, the Trust funds Dollar pupils’ personal projects abroad - academic, sporting, or recreationalfor those in Forms V and VI.
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