To earn the Gold Medal, each participant must complete at least 400 hours of Voluntary Public Service, which means sharing their time and talent for the betterment of the community, 200 hours of Personal Development, which can include exploring or improving upon a talent, skill, hobby, or interest, and 200 hours of Physical Fitness, spent in any way that improves their health and quality of life. Additionally, they must spend at least five days and four nights exploring a new environment or culture. Joshua has been consistently working to achieve this award for over 2 years, the minimum time frame to earn the Gold Medal. Joshua also earned a STEM Star in conjunction with their Gold Medal.