Leaders of tomorrow
Leadership skills are highly valued as the world becomes more complex and challenging. Developing these skills at an early age can lead to greater opportunities for young people in their studies, community service involvement or future careers.
'The camp is designed to help build strong kids. We also hope to teach young people the YMCA core values of caring, respect, responsibility and honesty so that they can eventually become the leaders of tomorrow,' says Ida Lo, senior programme officer.
'Participants will learn skills such as how to work in a group, accept criticism from their peers, learn to overcome challenges, be accepting of failure and in general become a well-rounded person.'
In phase one, participants take part in two residential camps of three days and two nights. They will be required to complete a range of activities designed to challenge them as individuals.
Self-challenge activities include hiking and water sports such as kayaking. Teambuilding workshops provide instruction on the nature of leadership and a range of skill development activities that includes building a raft.
In phase two students get the opportunity to put leadership skills into practice by taking on a role in one of the YMCA's other summer programmes. Each student gets to choose the type of camp that best suits their skills or interests and will be mentored by an instructor.
The final phase enables participants to celebrate their successes with their families at a formal dinner. Video snippets will provide evidence of the personal growth experienced by these young leaders.
Certificates and personal references will also be awarded.
Cost is HK$4,340 for YMCA members and HK$4,540 for non-members. Instruction is in English, with Cantonese translation.
The programme includes abseiling, orienteering, hiking, swimming and surfing. Teambuilding activities will also provide opportunities for developing leadership skills with the support of fully qualified outdoor education instructors.
Cost for the five-day camp is HK$3,700, including all transport, meals and drinks, accommodation, activities, instruction, safety equipment, T-shirt and insurance.
Other activities include surfing, rock climbing, hiking, kayaking and mountain bike riding. Participants should have camping experience, be competent swimmers and fit.
Cost is HK$3,950, including all meals, one night camping, a surfing certificate and a framed group photo.