The week-long eqUIP programme was part of a Commonwealth-wide project to develop youth leaders through internship and employment opportunities.

After two years of being impacted by COVID-19, the programme orientation returned to being delivered in-person and saw delegates come together to share their experiences.

Looking forward to the year ahead, the workshop was designed to familiarise interns with the eqUIP programme and allowed them to identify key goals and responsibilities for their internship, while also learning more about their respective Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs).

Attendees were given the opportunity to better understand the relationship between CGAs and different stakeholders, to learn how a growth mindset and the use of reflective practices can enhance professional development and how to share their stories through sport.

As this was also the first time interns from the 14^th intake had met, they took part in a range of team-building exercises.

These included a presentation to the previous cohort, an obstacle course, and a game drive at the Manong Game Lodge.

To celebrate their work across the couple of days, the trip ended with a boma braai dinner, giving them the chance to appreciate Botswanan culture.

Among those in attendance at the GCF-backed event were Commonwealth Games England (CGE) eqUIP intern Amy Swift and operations manager Francesca Crabtree.

Reflecting on her experience, Swift said: £The workshop provided a brilliant opportunity for me to build relationships with fellow interns, whose roles within their CGA's are completely different to mine.

"Specifically, the session involving workplans allowed me to visualise the role that I will take on within CGE over the coming months and has only added to my excitement stemming from this opportunity."