The Smile – Summer Camp: Camping Weekend Recap

Date: 23rd – 25th August
Location: Mosta Scouts Camping Site

Following three activities held at the Gardens of Serenity in Santa Lucija, the participants of The Smile – Summer Camp took an adventurous turn with a weekend camping trip at the Mosta Scouts Camping site. The camp was filled with engaging activities, creative expression, and opportunities for personal growth, all while fostering a deep sense of community and connection among the participants.

Activity 1: Finding Common Ground

The weekend began with a simple yet powerful activity where the youth introduced themselves in small groups. They explored their shared interests and experiences, setting the tone for a weekend of bonding and mutual understanding. This exercise helped break the ice and encouraged participants to open up and connect with one another.

Activity 2: Sunrise Meditation and Creative Expression

The next morning, they embraced the tranquility of the early hours with a meditation session at sunrise. With eyes closed, participants focused on their five senses—touch, smell, hearing, sight, and taste. This serene experience was followed by a creative painting session on recycled wood. One of the participants expressed the transition from night to day with a moon on the left, a sunrise/sunset in the middle, and a sun on the right, while another painted a landscape inspired by the view in front of him. This activity allowed the youth to channel their inner calm and creativity, reflecting on the beauty around them.

Activity 3: Fun and Games with a Purpose

They lightened the mood with a playful activity using a foam ball, where participants had to pass the ball based on assigned names, numbers, or simply by exchanging looks.

This was followed by the “Human Library,” where we had the privilege of hearing from four incredible human “books”:

• Damjan Attard – Friends of the Earth and Right to Smile
• Mariosa Caruana – JRS
• Malcolm Attard – Youth Worker and Coach
• Andre Callus – Moviment Graffiti

These sessions were eye-opening, offering insights into various social issues and inspiring the youth to think critically and empathetically.

Activity 4: Archery Adventures

In the spirit of friendly competition, the participants split into four groups for an archery session. The youth displayed impressive skills, with some hitting bullseyes. One participant even managed to hit a bullseye while crouched! The activity was a perfect blend of focus, patience, and teamwork.

Activity 5: Advocacy and Passion

Advocacy was a key theme of the weekend, as the youth learned about the importance of standing up for what they believe in. Whether it’s fighting against corruption, arrogance, or any other cause they’re passionate about, the session emphasized the power of using their voices to make a difference.

Activity 6: Kayaking for Strength and Coordination

The camp also included an exhilarating kayaking session, where participants learned the importance of coordination, core strength, and teamwork. Paddling together in sync, the group not only enjoyed the physical challenge but also strengthened their bond as a team.

Activity 7: Voluntary Work and Giving Back

The weekend wouldn’t have been complete without a focus on giving back. The group split into two for voluntary work:

• Group 1: Visited Noah’s Ark Dog Sanctuary, where they cleaned the premises and spent time with the dogs, learning about their stories and the importance of animal welfare.
• Group 2: Headed to Golden Bay for a microplastics clean-up as part of a citizen science project. Armed with kits from the lifeguard station, they meticulously combed the beach, contributing to environmental conservation.

At Noah’s Ark, after clearing leaves and debris from the gutter, the group had the chance to interact with three dogs, learning about their pasts and reflecting on the impact of their voluntary work.

What the participants had to say about the Camping weekend:

• Being in this summer camp has been an experience that combines learning and fun in a natural environment. Being here allows you to develop skills such as empathy, teamwork, responsibility, and adaptability. It is an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and learn from new experiences. I found the section we had with the human library very interesting, as we learned about how they contribute directly to the welfare of local communities or the conservation of the environment. I am sure that this summer camp has fostered the creation of meaningful bonds between all of us. A very important part has also been the recreational activities. A summer camp is much more than just a vacation. Valuable experiences are gained and new friendships are forged. 

• I enjoyed the kayaking, volunteering and the talks we had. 

• Overall it was a fun experience however I think it would have been more enjoyable if organised in the cooler months. I especially enjoyed the human library as I found it to be very interesting and informative. 

• It was fun, adventurous and educational. I can’t wait for the next one. It was well organised. Kudos to Dorianne, Ruth and the organising committee. 

• The Right 2 Smile camp was an extremely fun experience. I learnt so much. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. This campsite was beautiful and I enjoyed reconnecting with the wonders of nature.

• This experience was extremely fun and one of my favourite parts was the human library as we got to learn so much from all of the sharing their expertise. The campsite was beautiful and all the activities were well planned and enjoyable. 

Conclusion: A Weekend to Remember

This camping weekend was more than just a series of activities; it was a journey of self-discovery and learning. The youth left the camp not only with new skills and memories but also with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to their community. We can’t wait to see how they apply these experiences in their lives moving forward!

This project has been funded by the Small Initiatives Support Scheme (SIS) managed by the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector (MCVS) supported by the Ministry for Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector (MIV).

The Youth Programme of Right to Smile is supported by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ through the INVEST Operational Grant 2023-2025.