How an ACCT UK Grant Made a Dream Canoe Expedition Possible

For Cadet Staff Sergeant Camilla Laczny from Lincolnshire Army Cadet Force, the chance to go on a canoe expedition in Norway was something she’d always dreamed of, but never thought she’d get to do. Thanks to a grant from ACCT UK, that dream became a reality, and the experience turned out to be even more life-changing than she imagined.

Camilla first heard about the grant from her detachment commander, who encouraged her to apply. She admits, “I wanted to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, something I might not have been able to do outside of the cadet environment due to the high costs often associated with travelling abroad. On the advice of my detachment commander, I applied for the grant.”

That decision opened the door to Ex Troll Challenger 2025. This was an adventurous canoeing expedition organised by the Cadet Centre for Adventurous Training (CCAT). For Camilla, it was nothing short of “life-changing.” The grant enabled her to travel, explore, and push herself in ways she never thought possible.

The impact of the grant went way beyond the physical journey through Norway’s breathtaking scenery.

It’s clear that the canoe expedition experience wasn’t simply about paddling down rivers. It was about growing as a person, learning to work as a team, and building confidence in herself. These are lessons and skills she’ll carry with her for the rest of her life.

Camilla knows she’s not the only one who’s benefited from this kind of support. She’s passionate about how important these grants are for young people in the cadets. “This grant creates opportunities for cadets to take part in once-in-a-lifetime experiences that help develop lifelong skills. Many young people may not have the financial means to participate in such trips outside of the cadet environment, which is why this support has had such a positive impact on us. It removes barriers and opens doors to personal growth, teamwork, and confidence-building that might otherwise be out of reach.”

Her words sum up exactly why ACCT UK’s grants matter so much. They make sure that all cadets, no matter their background, have the chance to do something extraordinary.

When asked what she enjoyed most, Camilla finds it hard to choose just one thing. She says“I enjoyed it all! Ranging from the individuals I met, the breathtaking views and the exciting, thrilling challenges when travelling in a canoe… one of my favourite memories was notably canoeing to one of the campsites, which included a beach, crystal clear water, sunny weather and a fire pit. One of the instructors brought handmade bread, so we would roast bread together over the campfire every night until sunset.”

She also faced her fears and tried something completely new: white water rafting.

The trip wasn’t always easy. Camilla told us “I’m proud of my ability to preserve and keep calm. Me and my canoeing partner (at some points) would be struck by high waves and powerful winds in which was physically demanding. Without a doubt, being on the water for 9 hours to do 22km on our 3rd day had its challenges. Yet the ability to plan strategically your next move, having the discipline to keep on going and having good communication with your teammate makes me feel proud of myself for developing skills that I before hand wasn’t as confident in.”

Camilla’s story shows how much of a difference a grant from ACCT UK can make. It’s not just about funding a trip. It’s about giving young people the chance to grow, challenge themselves, and make memories that will last a lifetime. For Camilla, and so many others, that support has truly been life-changing.

Learn more about our grants and how to apply.