Rise and Thrive is a motivational day for the Armed Forces Community
The free one‑day event, being held at the Maison Dieu (Dover Town Hall), is primarily for the Armed Forces community including veterans, ex‑military personnel, reservists, and cadets from the Dover District and beyond.
Taking place on Friday 30 October, the day will offer a chance to access tailored support, connect with others who share similar experiences, and receive guidance for those adjusting to civilian life.
A highlight of the event will be guest speaker Preet Chandi MBE, who will share her extraordinary story of embarking on groundbreaking polar expeditions. A former British Army officer and physiotherapist, Preet served in the Royal Medical Army Medical Corps for 16 years. In 2022, Preet became the ninth woman in history to ski solo to the South Pole.
The day will include:
- Motivational speakers with lived experience of transition and resilience
- Specialist support agencies, including Royal British Veterans Enterprises, LifeWorks, RBL Dover, the Royal Marines Association, Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue Service, the Army Recruitment Team, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), offering guidance on mental health, employment, housing, and wellbeing
- Opportunities to build community connections, combat isolation, and celebrate service
Tickets are free to book and allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis. All residents are invited to apply.
Dover District Council is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, a voluntary pledge of mutual support between the civilian community and its local armed forces community. The Covenant complements the national commitment to ensuring that those who serve or have served, and their families, are treated with fairness and respect.
Cllr Lynne Wright, DDC’s Portfolio Holder for Community and Corporate Assets said: “Following the success of last year’s event, we are delighted to be bringing Rise and Thrive back to Dover. The day is all about bringing our Armed Forces community together, helping people to access practical support and advice, and providing an opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences.
“We are also incredibly pleased to welcome Preet Chandi as our guest speaker, and I’m sure her remarkable story of resilience and determination will be an inspiration to everyone attending.”
Posted on 09 October 2026