Gusto Camp - Group Leader

Being assigned the role as a group leader initially gave me an indescribable pressure as I am a newly joined volunteer and do not know the kids very well.

But it's because of the camp, I can get some time alone with my team especially during the trekking to understand the students, SVs and fellow volunteer better. To the kids, they need to endure the harsh environment. Having said that, they knew it's not easy but no one mentioned above giving up. More importantly, it's their selfless concern for each other along the way, allowing us to see their true inner character. This really makes the trip a very memorable one, everyone enjoying the trip not as individual, but as a team...

We may see them as kids who misbehave, mischievous and rebellious but deep within them, I believe they are gradually becoming responsible and mature, looking at the things they had done in the camp.

As a Group Leader, we need to consistently oversee them, ensuring their safety and well-being. But certain things, we are not able to teach them... but rather, guide them. Team spirit, caring and responsible...

Shawn Ng, knowing that the slope is steep, insists to slide down with his lower body than to "jump" down the slope as he would rather dirty his pants than to have injuries.

Dion and Junci to name a few, took initiative to attend the person when he had a fall or seeing people struggling along the way with their bags, rendering help to lighten their load.


My thoughts about this camp is not only looking at the objectives of this Camp or visions of Gusto in general, whether the kids achieve whatever we set. We have kids from all walks of life. They may not understand the real rationale of why this camp or Gusto is planned for them at their age. But from their little actions, you feel consoled, knowing that they are a bunch of good kids, with proper guidance, they will grow up to be useful people.

You may find me a person who is easily contented but this is who I am, my 'attitude' towards volunteerism. A self-motivating character to ensure my passion remains alive as long as possible as a volunteer.

Kudos to my team, who completed the camp and kudos to everyone who made this camp possible! =)

-CZY-