This is the 4th year we had the camp in Paraguay and I am thrilled about the outcome and already excited for next year. I was really nervous about my two girls backing out because camps are not common here in Paraguay so first to get the parents permission and then get the girls comfortable and excited to leave their homes are huge challenges we face as volunteers. But with much persuasion and obnoxious checking in to literally packing their suitcases myself, my girls went with me. And I am sooooooo happy they did!
Their names are Mirna and Aida, Mirna has been a part of my English class since August and is just starting 10th grade, and Aida was my host sister my first 3 months in my community and is just starting 9th grade. They are guapa as we like to say, or hard working, and I am excited to work with them on projects to empower other girls in our community. They were both super nervous and Aida's mom and brother came with us to the camp because they were so nervous and Mirna cried the whole bus ride there. But we made it! And now they want to go back again next summer.
At the camp we had lessons on self-esteem, leadership, working in teams, internet safety, continuing education, sexual health, healthy relationships and more. And of course there was the usual camp singing and dancing, swimming in the pool, team chants, competitions, art projects and overall fun and laughter! I was so happy that all of our hard work planning paid off and that the girls benefited hugely from this experience. It is a literal once in a lifetime chance for most of them and I am excited to bring more youth to camps in the future!
Here are some pics from the camp!
Zumba
Fun and Games
Skits
Me and my girls at the last night dance party
With our painted self-esteem tree
