By Cl. Loren Crasto for BISMumbai

Leadership camps were recently conducted by Don Bosco Youth Services (DBYS), Matunga, at Boscowadi, Uttan. The camps were organised for two age groups: Seniors (Class 10 and above) and Juniors (Classes 7 to 9). The Seniors’ leadership camp was held from 31 March to 2 April 2023, for both boys and girls, with a total of 55 participants. The Junior camp was held from 14 to 16 April 2023, with 38 boys enrolled. The main objective of these camps was to instill leadership qualities in the participants and encourage them to ‘Lead and Grow’.

This camp had input sessions on leadership by being good Christians and honest citizens. It was designed to help one realise one’s talents and potentials and importance of leadership in order to grow into maturity. The participants were also explained about Don Bosco’s dream at the age of nine, and how at a very young age he became a leader even to those who were older to him. The sessions were well-planned and encouraged innovative thinking among the participants.

Fun spare time activities, pitching tents, treks, a relaxed time in the pool, beach games, campfire, and so on was a delight to the campers, many of whom were experiencing such activities for the first time. The Eucharist, rosary services, and Taize services and Confessions were added to emphasise that the best Leader of all time is Jesus the Good Shepherd, and all are called to imitate him. 

One of the Senior participants, Mary Joseph, shares: “I had a wonderful experience in the leadership camp. I met new people and imbibed within me different leadership skills. The highlight of my camp experience was the Grand CampFire. I will always cherish these good memories.” 

Godwish Dabre also expressed his delight saying: “The camp was amazing. The camp taught me a lot, but most of all I felt loved by the Fathers, Brothers and Volunteers as they were animating us. They had some kind of magic.”  

One of the youth-volunteers, Ms Angela Fernandes, remarked: “It was a wonderful experience for me as a volunteer. I got to do things that I have never done before. I made amazing friends, danced, and sang my heart out and felt closer to God. All in all, I felt great to be part of this camp.”