Summer camp might spark memories of sleeping in cabins, playing endless games of softball, and roasting s'mores around a campfire somewhere in the heart of America.
But this time, summer camp took place in the heart of Ethiopia.
The camp, known as the Youth Solidarity and Leadership (YSL) program, brought 60 high school students 30 girls and 30 boys from Ethiopia's 11 diverse regions to a three-week American-style summer camp. The campers represented the different religions, languages, and traditions of Ethiopia, coming from both large cities and small towns all over the country.
For three weeks, the Ethiopian campers developed leadership and academic skills, learned about peace building, diversity, and tolerance, and tapped into their creative sides through theater, visual arts, and filmmaking.
Most importantly, the summer camp provided an opportunity for Ethiopian youth to build solidarity, make long-lasting friendships, and learn from each other and about their own country. By providing a safe space, campers feel empowered to share their diverse backgrounds and often gain a new respect for fellow campers with different customs.
In many countries around the world, including Ethiopia, where boys and girls do not often interact with one another, attending a summer camp with both genders is truly a unique initiative. The equal division of gender created an atmosphere of respect and support for one another and supported the right for girls to assert themselves on a fair and equal ground with boys.
"This has been an incredible experience for all of us," said camper Biniyam about his time at camp. "I've learned so many new things and have made new friends from all over my country."
The summer camp is a transformative experience for young people. As another camper noted at the end of camp: "YSL is a compass that shows us direction in our lives."
Don't take their word for it: catch the incredible energy of the campers in their camp video.
About the Ethiopian Youth Solidarity and Leadership Program (YSL)
The US Embassy in Addis Ababa has funded the Ethiopian Youth Solidarity and Leadership Program for its third consecutive year. The YSL summer camp brings 60 students from 11 diverse regions of Ethiopia for a three-week summer camp.
American Councils works with the US Embassy, YSL alumni, Peace Corps volunteers, and local education contacts to reach as many eligible students as possible from all 11 regions of the country, reaching students from remote areas who may never have this opportunity through normal channels.