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Few challenges push the human spirit to its absolute limits like Naked and Afraid. The hit survival TV show throws participants into some of the most unforgiving environments on the planet with nothing but a single survival item and their wits. When I, Steven Kelly, took on this challenge in the harsh wilderness of Colombia alongside my incredible partner, Sunny, I knew it would be a true test of endurance, resilience, and teamwork. Little did I know just how much I would have to overcome.
Colombia’s jungle is an unforgiving landscape, teeming with wildlife, extreme humidity, and relentless insects. From the very start, the conditions were brutal. The thick jungle canopy provided little relief from the sweltering heat, and the torrential downpours turned our already difficult survival into a constant battle against the elements. But the worst part? The bug bites.
If there’s one thing that can break even the toughest survivalists, it’s the relentless assault of insects. Mosquitoes, sandflies, and biting gnats were a constant nuisance, leaving my skin covered in painful, swollen welts. Sleep was nearly impossible, and every movement sent a fresh wave of irritation through my body. But giving in to discomfort was never an option. As a former 29 Commando Regiment soldier and survival expert, I knew that mental strength was just as crucial as physical endurance. The pain and discomfort were just another obstacle to overcome, and I refused to let them get the best of me.
Surviving Naked and Afraid isn’t just about individual skill—it’s about teamwork. Having the right partner can make or break the experience, and I couldn’t have asked for a better teammate than Sunny. From the very beginning, she brought positivity, determination, and an incredible survival mindset to the challenge.
Together, we tackled every hurdle the jungle threw at us. Whether it was building shelter, finding food, or staying motivated in the face of exhaustion, Sunny and I worked as a unit. We shared the burden of gathering firewood, took turns keeping watch at night, and supported each other through the toughest moments. There were times when frustration and fatigue threatened to take over, but having a partner who truly understood the struggle made all the difference.
Every survival challenge is a mental battle as much as a physical one. The jungle tested me in ways I never imagined, but I refused to break. Every time I felt the biting insects, the gnawing hunger, or the aching exhaustion, I reminded myself why I was there—to push my limits and prove that no challenge is too great.
From securing clean water to making fire and catching food, every small victory fueled my determination. I knew that perseverance, adaptability, and a strong mindset were the keys to success. By the end of the challenge, I had not only survived but thrived, proving once again that with the right mindset and a great partner, anything is possible.
Naked and Afraid is more than just a survival challenge; it’s a lesson in human resilience. My time in the Colombian wilderness reinforced everything I’ve learned throughout my military career and my experience as a survival instructor. The ability to stay calm under pressure, adapt to the environment, and rely on teamwork are the foundations of true survival.
I walked away from this challenge with a deeper respect for nature, for the power of the human spirit, and for the incredible bond forged between people who face adversity together. And while I’ll never forget the countless bug bites, I’ll also never forget the strength, perseverance, and camaraderie that made this experience one of the most rewarding of my life.
If there’s one thing I hope people take away from my Naked and Afraid journey, it’s that no matter how tough the odds, resilience and determination can carry you through anything. And having the right people by your side makes all the difference.
