By Sadie Kassiopeia T. Tuale
Dumaguete City—St. Louis School of Don Bosco successfully concluded its highly anticipated 5-day Leadership (LEAD) Camp and Kool Adventure Camp, held from July 15-16 and July 17-19, 2024, respectively. The event brought together a total of 55 participants, including students, facilitators, and educators, to cultivate essential leadership skills and foster a sense of community and empowerment among the next generation of leaders.
Day 1: Getting-To-Know-You and Youth Ministry
The camp kicked off with an inspiring welcome address by the school’s Pastoral Animator, Fr. John Quincy Caballo, SDB, who warmly welcomed the students and emphasized the importance of leadership in today’s youth. The day continued with various getting-to-know-you and team-building activities designed to break the ice and build camaraderie among participants. Highlights included the planning of their tribe name, banner, chant, and yell, which set the tone for the collaborative spirit of the camp. This was followed by talks about the Youth Ministry given by two of the camp’s facilitators, Ate Sadie Tuale and Kuya Bixe Embradura. To cap off the day, the campers showcased their tribe chants and banners in front of a judge’s panel composed of teachers.
Day 2: Event Planning and Basketball with a Twist
Participants engaged in a talk about “How to Plan for an Event” given by another one of the camp’s facilitators, Ate Changnaraden Angas. The half-day session concluded with a simulation activity where campers had the chance to organize their own events. After a long day of planning and reporting their ideas, the campers were able to let loose and have fun in a game of basketball “with a twist” facilitated by Sir David Catipay.
Day 3: Arriving at Kool Adventure Camp
After having spent the last two days on campus, the campers and facilitators took a long trip to Balamban, Cebu for the second part of the 5-day camp— the Kool Adventure Camp by RAFI. They were welcomed with a delicious lunch followed by an outdoor preparation activity conducted by the camp’s facilitators (Zion, Autumn, and Arly), which they call “Belay School.” This activity equipped the campers with the proper skill set in preparation for some challenging outdoor activities to be done the next day.
Day 4: Outdoor Activities and Leadership Challenges
Participants took part in outdoor activities and leadership challenges that tested their ability to conquer their fears and their teamwork as a tribe. Activities such as “ropes courses” and “rock climbing” were designed to push participants out of their comfort zones and promote resilience and adaptability. At the end of the day, they not only overcame their fear of heights but also fostered a great sense of teamwork.
Day 5: Reflection and Closing Ceremony
The final day focused on reflection and the synthesis of learning experiences. Participants shared their personal growth stories and the impact the camp had on their leadership perspectives. Right before lunch, one last outdoor activity was given to the campers, which was a type of leadership obstacle course, promoting their ability to work together as one big camp. To end the 3-day course, the campers engaged in a heartwarming closing activity that involved receiving words of affirmation from their fellow campers. Before heading back to Dumaguete, Fr. Jake, SDB, presided over a Holy Mass at “The Summit” of the facility, facing scenic views of the mountains and ocean.
Participant Perspectives
“Make the most out of anything and everything, wherever and whenever,” said Andrei John Nicolai Gerolao, Student Government President.
Mentor Insights
“LEAD Camp became a soaring adventure, where the toughest climbs revealed the sweetest leadership lessons, learned not just from above, but alongside my teammates,” remarked Changnaraden Angas, camp facilitator and SLSDB alumna.
“My experience at LEAD CAMP 2024 was motivating as both an educator and camp organizer. The changes in the campers were rapid and remarkable, and I was amazed by how their leadership qualities shone through despite their differences. They expressed empathy towards one another, which is the strongest asset of a leader. I am excited and thrilled for this coming school year, knowing we have these young, inspiring leaders,” expressed Charlene Umpad, camp facilitator and SLSDB educator.
As the camp concluded, participants left with renewed confidence and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a leader. The 5-day Leadership (LEAD) Camp not only equipped them with valuable skills but also inspired them to make a positive difference in the school and their communities.
SLSDB plans to continue fostering leadership development through future camps and programs. For more information or to get involved, visit the “SLSDB- Salesian Youth Movement” Facebook page.
Padayon, Kabataang Salesyano! Youth Serving Youth!
