The biggest official event of World Scouting, has concluded. It was the 23rd World Scout Jamboree, which was held in Kirara-hama, Yamaguchi, Japan from July 28 to August 8, 2015. Two of Anguilla’s scouts, in the persons of Keshawn Lake and Calivon Vanterpool were privileged to participate in this “once in a lifetime”, historical event. They joined their scout friends from St. Kitts, Antigua, Tortola and Scotland, along with their leader Mr. Frenchie Gumbs from Tortola to comprise a United Kingdom branch contingent. The theme, “WA: a Spirit of Unity” was the theme for the Jamboree. The Kanji Character “?” (WA) embraces many meanings such as unity, harmony, cooperation, friendship and peace. WA also represents Japan and its culture.
When Keshawn and Calivon left they were not sure what to expect as this was the first time they were travelling to a faraway place and for so long. They expressed that it was his first time there were seeing so many people gathered in one place, meeting and having fun with one another. Activities that Calivon and Keshawn engaged in included the:
• Peace Programme
• Global Development Village(GDV
• Exploring Nature
• Cross Road of Culture (CRC
• City of Science (COS)
• Water Activities
Now that they have returned to Anguilla they have expressed gratitude to the Scouts’ Association for the opportunity to attend the jamboree. They have committed to making a difference in their communities as they intend to grow old in the movement.
The Scouts’ Association is grateful to the Department of Youth and Culture for its monetary contribution and the many businesses and individuals who contributed and patronised the fundraising activities that were held to defray the cost of the trip to Japan.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
