Scouts reunite at Moot main campsite for activities, inspiration, and global friendship

3 minutes

World Scout Moots are unlike any other event in Scouting. Every four years, thousands of young adults pack their bags and set off on an exciting journey that combines cultural exchange, outdoor living, and leadership in action. Each Moot begins with smaller groups venturing through the host country, before reuniting at a central camp to celebrate what makes Scouting truly special: unity, friendship, and adventure.

In Portugal, the 16th World Scout Moot brought together around 7,500 Scouts and volunteers from 117 countries, transforming the coastal village of Cortegaça into a vibrant hub of energy and exchange. Over several days, the campsite buzzed with workshops, games, exhibitions, and nightly campfires — a space where participants learned new skills, sparked ideas for change, and built friendships that crossed borders.

"This was my first international Scouting event and my first time out of the Philippines. It was kind of scary at first, but along the way, I made some great friends ... The most beautiful thing about Scouting is the bonds and the camaraderie that you share - you go from strangers, to friends, to Scouting brothers and sisters.”
JG Tito Aguilar
Moot participant from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines

The programme was packed with activities designed to both challenge and inspire. Throughout the main campsite, dedicated spaces invited Scouts to dive into everything from hands‑on first aid sessions to thought‑provoking discussions on the future of Scouting and the realities faced by refugees. Cultural performances celebrated diversity and inclusion, while adventurous spirits tested their skills in kayaking, scuba diving, or even wood carving.

Beyond the campsite, the learning continued. Participants explored local museums, gazed at the stars during planetarium visits, and soaked in the coastal scenery. For those craving quieter moments, beachside yoga and meditation offered a pause to reflect and recharge.

Activities at the main campsite
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Pedro Côrte-Real Gonçalves

At the heart of the campsite were three main areas, each with its own unique offerings:

World Scouting’s SDGs Tent

In this vibrant corner of the campsite, Scouts had the opportunity to immerse themselves in interactive exhibitions and skill-building workshops designed to bring the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) to life. Here, participants were encouraged to explore active citizenship and solutions to global challenges, empowering them to take action on some of the most critical challenges facing the planet.

“If you have the opportunity to travel to an international event, take it! It’s an opportunity to meet new people - people who could impact your life in different ways - and have different experiences.”
Mariam
Moot participant from Scouts of Namibia

Energize Arena

The Energize Arena offered a space for Scout to slow down and reflect. In the arena, participants discovered and celebrated the richness of faiths and belief systems around the world, engaged in meaningful conversations to break down barriers and highlight shared human values. Through panel discussions, keynote talks, and moments of collective reflection, Scouts were encouraged to embrace diversity and foster friendships that transcended cultural and religious differences. 

Smiling Scouts
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Sílvia Maurício

IN’Gage Arena

The IN’Gage Arena provided an engaging meeting point for ideas and collaboration with partners and like-minded organisations, showcasing their efforts to drive positive change. Through exhibitions, workshops, and interactive games, Scouts participated in debates, presentations, and campfire discussions where they exchanged perspectives to discover new ideas and inspirations.

 

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