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Fiji RYPEN The first of hopefuly many.
Kelly Botha introduced the meeting to the event and the video that was used to share the recent trip by past RYLARians to Fiji and the RYDA program delivered there.
Apologies were extended from team members who couldn't attend due to illness, including Caitlin who has a sprained ankle. The event was framed around the Rotary Club of Suva's leadership development program for youth facing a cultural disconnect. The contrast between the idyllic image of Fiji and the realities faced by its citizens, including poverty, stray dogs, and dilapidated infrastructure. A team of eight from New Zealand, all experienced in RYLA or RYPEN programs, staying in a remote part of Suva at the MOS retreat.
The team faced numerous challenges, including delayed travel arrangements due to bad weather in Wellington, leaving them to adapt with limited connectivity.
Cultural differences and the concept of "Island time" posed additional challenges, especially with the Fijian students. River crossings and engaging students in reflection sessions were also difficult, with frequent changes to the program schedule. On day two, the team decided to shift from reflection to connection, immersing the students in traditional customs and the life of Fiji.
The day began with adventure-based learning similar to RYLA, followed by engaging students with the local environment.
Activities included free time for sports like touch rugby or volleyball, a trip to the river, and a cultural experience with local village performances and dancing. Despite the challenges, the program was a success, with students expressing a desire for the program to be extended and for more opportunities to build relationships and skills.
Feedback from the students highlighted their appreciation for the program, new relationships formed, and the opportunity to build confidence and skills.
The experience in Namosi village helped students connect with their culture, appreciate the natural environment, and build lasting relationships with peers from rival schools. The unique shared experience enabled students to overcome differences, understand themselves, and develop into strong future leaders. The team was honored by the people of Namosi for their hospitality and kindness, making the experience a once-in-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the volunteers. The team will now reflect on how to support the ROTORACT Track Team in Fiji, having handed over the RYPEN program to them.
RYPEN NZ
Mateo Base from St Peters College told us of his experience at the RYPEN Camp in Auckland
He shared his appreciation of participating in the Raiplin camp and expressed regret for the absence of their teacher, Mr. Devesh Umar, and his RYPEN partner, Martel Herrera.
The camp was described as a great way to connect with various schools, and initially, they had no idea what to expect.
Upon arrival at Kokako Lodge, they were greeted by Ayni and the support team, who made them feel welcome.
Mateo noted the camp allowed them to connect with schools they never thought they would interact with, leading to a memorable experience.
Mateo told us that he initially thought leadership was a personal journey but learned it involves supporting those around you.
He was proud of his colleague Martel, who stepped out of his comfort zone and showed significant growth.
In fact Martel, who was not very social at their school, demonstrated his ability to push himself at the camp.
The camp included disciplinary personal training sessions due to misconduct, but the activities like rock climbing and raft-building emphasized the need for a systematic approach to leadership.
Mateo observed that some people tried to lead without a method, which did not yield positive results.
He commented that effective leadership involves gathering everyone's input, similar to a democratic approach, to produce a collective outcome.
The camp activities highlighted the importance of having a plan and method to lead others successfully.
Mateo in conclusion expressed gratitude to Ayni and the RYPEN team for the opportunity and blessed them for being so supportive.
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