Youth

Global Peace Volunteers Camp 2016

To advance the importance of youth participation in community development, peacebuilding, and disaster response through volunteerism, Global Peace Youth Philippines in partnership with the Local Government of San Antonio, Zambales hosted a 3-day Global Peace Volunteers Camp on May 18-20 in San Antonio, Zambales. The camp was attended by upcoming and current university students, young professionals, and educators from Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, and Malaysia.

The camp also aims to create a learning environment for youth leaders to develop and practice their skills to explore, discuss, and engage for leadership and personal growth. Hon. Estela Antipolo, mayor of San Antonio, Zambales, hosted a welcome dinner for the delegates and organizers, and encouraged the young people to use their energy in creating positive contributions to their respective countries and the world. It was followed by Filipino cultural performances of the Amazing Ultimate Tribe and presentations by the GPV participants who were grouped into teams.

For three days, the international and interfaith delegates shared and discussed their inputs on various peacebuilding topics while recognizing their common identity and shared universal values. They also participated in a leadership adventure race, a hands-on training on first-aid and disaster response, and a trust-and-confidence course conducted by the Emergency Response Association.

On their last day in Zambales, the delegates were given the opportunity to spend time and connect with the local people as their extended families. They spent most of their time with the children, all 200 of them, by teaching them new games, songs, and dance routines. They also witnessed the turnover ceremony organized by GPF Philippines and National University for the 10 solar-powered street lights that will benefit hundreds of families in Sitio Tubo-Tubo, Brgy. San Esteban in San Antonio, Zambales. The delegates were empowered to organize similar activities which can promote development in their respective communities.

Check out the photos of what our delegates have experienced during the exciting 3-day camp as we hope to see you on the next!

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