Bravo Brando!

Brando this morning when I dropped him off at Clifton Beach

Here at Skeinz, being 'accidental environmentalists' has meant we have crossed paths with some pretty inspiring people. One such person is Brando Yelavich.  This young Aucklander is well set on becoming the first person to completely circumnavigate New Zealand by it's coastline.

Brando with his two HB walking companions at the tip of Cape Kidnappers

Brando's journey stared last February at Cape Rienga & has taken him down the West Coast of the North Island, all the South Island (including the wild West Coast in the middle of Winter!) & yesterday I picked him up from Clifton Beach, on the Napier side of Cape Kidnappers.  For the two nights & day it will take him to walk the Napier stretch of Hawkes Bay, my family & I have had the extreme pleasure of having Brando in our home.

Just another of the breathtaking views at this stage of his journey

It is refreshing to meet such a bewitching & inspirational young man.  Brando is the definition of a global thinker.  His epic journey has given him a unique & personal experience with the grandeur, yet delicate nature of our NZ coastline, all whilst exuding the classic relaxed kiwi 'can do' attitude.

How could you resist these eyes!

As a sufferer of both ADHD & Dyslexia, Brando struggled within the conventional confines of education & started down some pretty 'rough' paths, but the true grit of this young man showed through when he decided to "clear his head & his life".  He said to my husband & I last night that if he was going to make a change, it may as well have been a BIG one!  Brando is a real "shoot for the stars" man.  He's hoping the experiences gained through this journey in his own "Coastal University" will help his future career prospects.  I have no doubt they will, his engaging personality, communication skills, sheer grit & determination & the ability to just get on with the job, will make him an asset to organisation lucky enough to snap him up once his odyssey is over.

Simply Stunning

With all this being said, Brando is still finding time to give back.  He's been fundraising for all three Ronald McDonald houses in NZ.  These are havens for families who have sick children, who need somewhere to stay whilst their loved ones are having treatment in one of the Tertiary medical hospitals in Auckland, Wellington & Christchurch.  So far he's exceeded his $10,000 goal, not surprising having met him.

My son's just engrossed in the photo's of his last few days

So - Thank You Brando for spreading your infectious spirit in our house.
If you want to Support Brando - click here to donate.
Want to follow Brando on his exploits - Click here.
But most importantly SHARE Brando's message with your own social media networks - spread the Brando spirit!