Serving a Mountain Apprenticeship
The brains behind Pride Expeditions is Nick Read who at fifteen years of age decided after a week at an inspirational outdoor education centre that he’d found his calling in life. That he wanted to be among the mountains and in the rivers, always. To inspire people to visit these places just like he had been inspired at Storey Arms outdoor education centre in Brecon when he was still at school. He has reached the highest levels of qualification available to those who call the mountains of the UK their office. As it is called by the Association of Mountaineering Instructors he is a master of his craft.
It has often been a mystery to some, how he can spend so much time in the mountains..What is he doing? Some might say. The question is answered by the brilliant voice of Alan Watts here.
The question asked of many young people is ‘how would you enjoy spending your life’ and the answer is always a complex one to answer. Thinking about the answer generates questions like who you would like to be and what you would like to achieve. Loving the mountains, loving being active, working in the mountains and being a professional should never be a conflict. Just as being gay and being an adventurer and a mountaineer should not be a conflict. To all those out there thinking of making the mountains their career we say go for it!
Thankfully stereotypes are slowly becoming a thing of the past and young people are starting to feel that there are no barriers to what you do with your life. People can suggest alternatives, they can call it a game and not a career, they can say there is no money in it but you have the ultimate say. It is your life and you will be the one living it so make that choice for yourself only.
It is well researched that gay men are statistically suffering more with depression and suicide and other mental health issues. They often find it particularly hard when young and lacking direction. This may be a stereotype in itself, but for many being in the outdoors is a release.
It was always for me. It gave me a sense of purpose. It calmed my mind and forced me to concentrate. It has given me a career, a hobby and a life. It has also helped me understand who I am. I am now helping others along that road and Pride Expeditions are here to help.
Nick Read doing what he loves
To those who want to reach a goal, to work in the outdoors or to climb a mountain every step is a step in the right direction. We say, don’t listen to the naysayers. Find what you love doing and so it some more! We will help if we can. Come and do a skills course or an expedition with us, or just follow us and contact us for advice. We are here for all.