The Girton Grammar graduate will receive the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at a gala ceremony at Government House.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is one of the world’s leading achievement awards for young people.

It has three levels of achievement – gold, silver and bronze – with gold being the hardest to attain. 

Mr Kohli volunteered his time to coordinate both a youth leadership and environmentally sustainable project in Delhi in 2009.

The 23-year-old ran discussion groups for young people in the community.

"The community youth leadership project  involved talking to adolescents within the community," Mr Kohli said. 

"It was essentially talking to them about the issues they are facing."

Mr Kohli said he spoke with young people about social awareness, peer pressure, relationships and making plans for the future.

As part of his trip the university student also educated the community on environmental issues associated with the pollution in the Yamuna River, one of the largest waterways in India.

“Having the opportunity to hear such different perspectives really provided me with a greater sense of appreciation for people less fortunate than myself,” he said.

Mr Kohli said completing the Duke of Edinburgh program had enriched his life experiences.

“I have had a lot of opportunities through the program,” he said.  

“I have done things that I would perhaps never had done before and met many new people.

“It has been rewarding.”

Through the Duke of Edinburgh program Mr Kohli gained qualifications as a sound and light technician.

He also conducted a hiking expedition in Daylesford and developed skills in hockey.   

Bendigo students Jake Dell-O’Sullivan and Harrison Bennett will also receive awards. 

kristen.alebakis@fairfaxmedia.com.au