As I look back one year ago to the 24th World Scout Jamboree
One year ago today, 45,000 young people gathered in West Virginia to unlock a new world and begin a journey of growth, friendships and global citizenship. Three participants jointly reflect on their experience of a lifetime at the 24th World Scout Jamboree.
Co-authored by: Mike Najem (Lebanon), Zoe Georghiades (Cyprus), Selim El Garhy (Egypt)
Time stopped. The stadium buzzed; flags waved; fireworks dazzled and Novus bracelets lit up. The bridge rocked as people danced. Chants were sung; different cultures were embraced; smiles were shared. Friendships were made. It was a moment in time when everything was possible.
We lived in a utopia that focused on the promotion of human ethics. We were young people from all around the world gathered in one place by a common passion. We witnessed the true extent of the diversity and unity that lies within our global Movement. We learned that the future of our world depends on our ability to act upon and advocate for the global issues that we feel strongly about as youth enrolled in Scouting. Most importantly, we learned that despite our differences it is possible for us all to coexist in harmony.
To us, the 24th World Scout Jamboree (WSJ) marked the beginning of the next era of Scouting. An era full of determined young individuals standing together for an improved global civilization. This is an era with a Scouting spirit stronger than ever, where Scouts are more connected than ever and supportive of each other. The Jamboree taught 45,000 young people that a global change is long overdue and that if we play our part, it is very much possible.
We were incredibly lucky to be able to be part of the Global Ambassadors programme at the 24th World Scout Jamboree. This was a large network of participants, each representing their country, whose role was to act as influencers and bloggers from within the Jamboree to engage their friends back home. This gave us the opportunity to virtually share our Jamboree experiences and connect with Scouts back home. It also allowed us to understand the long-lasting influence and bonds that this event would have on our global Movement, and predominantly, it taught us the importance of sharing the message of Scouting with the world.
We didn’t leave the 24th World Scout Jamboree the same people as when we arrived. We had all grown on a personal level through the opportunities and experiences that this once-in-a-lifetime experience offered us. We left with newfound confidence, with the satisfaction of pushed limits, and of course with a new international network of friendships and a backpack full of memories!
Prior to the adventure, we expected that we would make new friends, discover new places, and create memories. Today, we know that we discovered a new home and made a new family of 45,000 people, and we can’t wait for the next family reunion.
