Fr. Bento D’Souza for BIS Mumbai

The much-anticipated Rise Up Camp 2024 began at Bosco Wadi, Gorai, on November 2, bringing together 79 enthusiastic students from Vasai and Uttan. The campers, consisting of 31 girls and 48 boys from grades Six and Seven, were eager for a transformative week focused on learning, personal development, and memorable experiences away from home. The camp is designed to help them improve their English and math skills while also emphasizing personality building, creativity, and hygiene.

The camp’s success relies on the dedication of an experienced team of mentors, including Fr. George D’Abreo, Fr. Richard Burkhao, Fr. Ajay D’Monte, Fr. Renold Lemos, Sr. Vanita Gabru SRA, and volunteers Ms. Riya Mhankale, Ms. Jill Dias, Ms. Rincy D’Souza, Teachers Mrs. Shaila Coutinho, and Ms. Malaika D’Mello. Volunteer Dolciya Borges also contributed their energy and enthusiasm, ensuring an engaging and supportive environment for the children.

Upon arrival, campers were treated with breakfast and introduced to the camp rules. Icebreaker activities immediately set an upbeat and lively tone, featuring action songs and alertness games that promoted bonding among the children. The participants were divided into teams, encouraging teamwork and friendly competition throughout the week.

Interactive workshops led by creative professionals, such as Mr. Juran Lopez and Maxwell Sir, focused on sparking imagination and building confidence through activities like street plays and public speaking. These sessions emphasized the importance of values like honesty, discipline, gratitude, and teamwork. The children engaged in problem-solving exercises and dynamic games that further reinforced these themes.

The camp also includes opportunities for physical activity and relaxation, with beach games and refreshing swims providing a balance between learning and recreation. Spiritual nourishment was integrated through the celebration of the Eucharist and moments of prayer. The camp’s spiritual dimension offered the children a chance for introspection and community bonding.

Each day was filled with engaging academic sessions aimed at strengthening foundational skills in English and mathematics, addressing gaps created by remote learning during the pandemic. Creative exercises, such as newspaper tower-building and film analysis, encouraged the development of critical thinking and communication skills. Personality development activities, paired with joyful dances and action songs, kept the energy high and spirits uplifted.

Evenings were marked by lively night games that promoted unity and laughter, and traditional "Good Night" messages from the mentors left the children looking forward to more adventures. With an exciting blend of education, creativity, and physical activities, Rise Up Camp 2024 promises to be a memorable and impactful experience for all participants, setting the stage for their growth and success.