Leadership and Wellbeing through Adventure in Nature
This April saw the launch of our new programme for young women from within the East Lothian community called Women in Adventure - Leadership & Wellbeing Programme.
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The programme is more than just a series of outdoor activities—it's a transformative journey that builds confidence, resilience, and sisterhood. From braving coasteering jumps along the coastline and paddling across tranquil lochs, to practicing mindfulness in woodland clearings around the campfire, this programme is redefining what it means to be leaders, to be self-aware, to be resilient, and to thrive.
This programme is funded by The National Lottery and is designed to support personal development, wellbeing and leadership skills through outdoor learning and shared experiences in nature. Each programme is 5 days in length, delivered one day a week for 5 weeks, or 5 consecutive days during school holidays.
Adventure as a Catalyst for Positive Change
Adventure challenges us. It puts us face to face with discomfort, uncertainty, and our own perceived limitations. But for the women on this programme, those challenges become stepping stones toward empowerment. Each experience fosters decision-making skills, courage, and a deep understanding of self. Combine these experiences with introductions to wellbeing and mindfulness skills and a supportive, reflective environment, and you can create the foundations for young leaders who are resilient, compassionate and grounded.
Adventure & Wellbeing - a powerful partnership
At the centre of our programme is a commitment to mental and physical wellbeing. Nature provides a powerful setting for supported challenge, healing and reflection. Through guided wellbeing practices like journaling, values coaching, and nature-based mindfulness, participants reconnect with themselves and others in ways that are too often lost in busy day-to-day life.
A Growing Movement
This isn’t just a programme—it’s part of Ocean Vertical’s core values - to make adventure and leadership more inclusive, accessible, and opportunities for supported wellbeing for women of all backgrounds. As we continue to deliver and grow this programme, we remain committed to creating spaces where people can challenge themselves, support one another, and learn skills for life.
The Women in Adventure
We’re proud to say that our participants reported - feeling more resilient having faced challenges and fears; increased confidence; new skills to apply to help keep calm and present in everyday life.
Be part of the programme
If you know anyone who could benefit from attending this programme, please email [email protected] to find out further information and to receive a referral form.
We are delighted to be able to provide this programme free of charge from April 2025 - April 2026 due to the funding we have received from the National Lottery. The latest cohort will be starting on the 4th June 2025. For full delivery details and how to refer, please contact us here.
Equality in participation is key. We are able to provide transport for those who would otherwise struggle to access travel options. Food equality is also important and we will ensure all participants are provided with healthy food and refreshments each day at no extra cost to themselves.