TEENS UNITE
Teens from around the globe gather in Calgary
YOUTHS GATHER TO SHARE MESSAGE OF PEACE
An excited group of 14-yearolds passionate about a more peaceful world ahead welcomed the public to the Children’s International Summer Villages camp Sunday afternoon.
Among those interested in how 35 teenagers from nine different countries managed to get along so . . . peacefully, was Mayor Naheed Nenshi. He attended their Open Day, an opportunity for the young visitors to share their heritage and customs while interacting with Calgarians.
Nenshi spoke to the audience of nearly 150 and later toured the room to see what the teenagers had brought to show-and-tell.
“I’m sure he spoke to every one of them, personally,” says Jill Nuckles, host program co-ordinator, CISV Calgary Chapter. “He did a lovely job welcoming everyone and talked about the value of programs like those CISV offers.”
CISV International was founded 60 years ago by American Dr. Doris Allen. She was inspired to promote global friendships between children. Values promoted by this non-religious, non-political independent organization include enthusiasm, engagement, co-operation, and inclusiveness.
Allen believed the world would be a more peaceful place if children could make friends with children in other countries.
Flags from each participating country hung from the ceiling and tables at the back of the room displayed national items the teens had brought with them including candies, pins, buttons, jewelry and other items to give away. Participants embraced the opportunity to be ambassador of their home countries by teaching Calgarians something new. Delegations also brought traditional instruments for display, including Indonesia’s traditional bamboo instrument.
Eventually everyone in the audience was on their feet, participating in performances and activities lead by the teens.
Participants represented Turkey, Indonesia, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Brazil, Guatemala, Mexico and Vancouver, B.C.
Volunteer camp cook Candace Allen served at least one food item from each country, including Nasi Goreng, Turkish dips, and mango salsa. Her pudding cups were coloured to match each country’s flag.
“We had more attendees, delegates, media than in previous years,” says Nuckles. “We were very happy with the turnout and the kids were thrilled to share their customs with the camp guests.”
Sandra Jansen, MLA, Calgary North West and Carmen Aguilera, Honorary Consul Emeritus for the Republic of Guatemala were among those who attended.
The group celebrates The Year of Sustainability in 2012 and all the materials used at this camp are recycled, including reclaimed clay from the Wildflower Arts Centre.
CISV chapters are active in 200 countries. They are volunteer run, but the young people take an active role in program planning helping them to develop key leadership and communication skills.
Each year, dozens of Calgary children between the ages of 11 and 18 and their adult leaders travel to join other children in every part of the world.
In December, a group of 11-yearolds will travel to India where there is a well-established CISV chapter. Spaces remain available for interested children.
Next year, CISV Calgary Chapter will host a Village Camp for 11-year-olds from 12 countries. Go to www.cisvcalgary.ca for details.