27 – 29 August 2010

written by Loredana Falzon

‘Solid-Kamp Sajf 2010’- A massive experience!

Kamp Sajf weekend was surely a massive unforgettable experience.  We arrived there at about 6:00pm and as soon as we entered the school we had to pass from a ‘medical test’ which included doing some push-ups and having our bags searched.  It was like being in a training camp.  Soon after all this we had to change in our pyjamas and line up and then we had to jog around the streets of Xgħajra in our pyjamas!!

After the unusual jog we lined up and the rules were read out by the ŻAK president.  Then we settled in our rooms and soon after we had dinner.  We danced this year’s song Waka Waka and then we lined up again.  It was time for the workshop in which we had to build a solid structure with a purpose.  Then we were shown a short film about a time capsule and then we discussed a bit and we did our own time capsule.  Later we had a reflection which was presented to us in a very interesting way.  And then it was time to go to bed and rest after all the hard work.

The next day we woke up early and had breakfast.  Awaiting us was another task which included some obstacles which we had to overcome such as jumping over the fire, roll on the floor and so on…..  After this we had a 2 hour break in which we had time to rest, socialise and dance the popular ŻAK songs.  Then it was time for another workshop in which we were shown some videos taken during the obstacle race and then we had a discussion about why some of us failed and our feelings about encountering these obstacles.  After this short workshop we had a delicious lunch thanks to the chefs.  It was time for another workshop.  This time it was a longer one however it was very interesting since some known people who have had various challenges in their lives came to talk and discuss with us about the challenges which helped them to become more Solid throughout their lives.

After this interesting workshop it was time for a short walk which took us at a place near the sea where we did another workshop.  This workshop involved getting into group and discussing certain values such as family, relationships, education and others in which we had to share our personal experiences.  After that we had something to eat to fill up our energy and then we started walking again and this time we ended up in a field where we had to do a treasure hunt in order to find a label with our name on it.  After this treasure hunt we had the mass which was animated by the ŻAK Band.  During the mass there was a great sense of unity and the best part of it was when during the peace all of us hugged each other and while doing so we said to the each other “BE YOURSELF”.

We went back to the school where we did some night games and then we all went to sleep after such a long day.  However we woke up with the sound of drums and trumpet and the leaders shouting for us to get up.  “Oh not so early!!”.  So we got up and went outside for another session of training which included push ups and sit ups.  After this hardworking session we had breakfast and then we split up in groups in order to do some work on some upcoming activities.  After that session we had the famous water games in which we all became wet from head to toe.  Then we danced some ŻAK songs and took a group photo.

After the water games we had lunch and then it was time to start cleaning.  We had to clean everything and everywhere but since we were a good team we divided the work between us and worked very well.

This weekend was surely an unforgettable one and it helped us all to become more Solid and also helped us to gain new experiences and face new challenges.  It was nice getting to know people from other ŻAK centres and making new friends.  And last but not least a big thanks goes to all the leaders who worked hard to make this weekend and unforgettable one

– Loredana Falzon