Tom Avery

The Prince’s Trust was founded in 1976 by HRH The Prince of Wales to help 14-30 year olds realise their potential and transform their lives by providing them with practical support including training, mentoring and financial assistance.

They focus their efforts on those who've struggled at school, been in care, been in trouble with the law, or are long-term unemployed. Their message “Yes You Can” encourages young people overcome barriers and get their lives working.

The Commonwealth South Pole Centenary Expedition and the Barclays Capital Ultimate North Expedition each raised over £10,000 for the Prince’s Trust. It’s a real privilege to be involved with this wonderful organisation which makes a positive difference to the lives of so many young people. I continue to work raising funds and awareness for the Trust in my capacity as one of its official ambassadors.

When I was asked to join the London 2012 team as one of our Olympic bid’s 120 ambassadors, I had no hesitation in accepting. Whilst polar exploration is a long way from becoming an Olympic discipline, I am honoured to be part of the team whose job it is to promote the bid around the country.

The privilege of hosting the Greatest Show on Earth is going to bring lasting benefits to London and the entire country - from the creation of jobs and world class sporting facilities to improvements in infrastructure. But above all a London Olympics will inspire a new generation to make sport an important part of their lives, boosting the nation's health and producing British champions of the future.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is the country’s leading programme for the personal development of young people. It encourages them to take part in exciting, constructive, challenging and enjoyable activities during their free time.

Over two million young people have taken part in the scheme, which as well as developing individual talent, self-confidence and leadership, has also provided nearly ten million hours of community service since its creation.

I am an active supporter of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and am thrilled to have been asked to be a part of the Award’s 50th Anniversary in 2006. I only wish I had had the opportunity to take part in the Award when I was at school!

BSES Expeditions is a youth development charity that organises challenging scientific expeditions to remote, wild environments such as Greenland and the Amazon to develop the confidence, teamwork, leadership and spirit of adventure and exploration of its Young Explorers.

It is a great thrill for me to be a patron of this very special organisation that not only offers unique challenges for young people but also teaches them so much about the great outdoors and the beautiful world in which we live.