THE 8TH ANNUAL PEACE THROUGH FAIR PLAY(PTFP) YOUTH CAMP
The Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa organized its 8th annual Peace Through Fair Play (PTFP) Youth Camp in Zorzor, Lofa County. This transformative event was scheduled to occur from July 6th to July 12th, 2024, bringing together 50 campers from the local community, towns, cities, and villages around Lofa County. The eighth (8th) annual Peace Through Fair Play (PTFP) Youth camp was themed under Engaging Youth, Embracing Leadership, and Enhancing Peace. This transformative event was designed to empower and educate 50 Camper from various cities and towns around Lofa County. The primary objective of the camp is to cultivate peacebuilding skills and leadership qualities among the youth participants. Through a combination of interactive workshops, sports activities, and collaborative projects, the camp aims to instill values of fair play, tolerance, and effective conflict resolution strategies for these young individuals. By empowering these young individuals with practical tools and knowledge, the camp seeks to foster a generation capable of positively impacting their communities and promoting sustainable peace.
OBJECTIVE OF THE PEACE THROUGH FAIR PLAY(PTFP) YOUTH CAMP
The objectives of GPFA Eighth Annual Peace Through Fair Play (PTFP) Youth Camp are:
To empower youth to become agents of change in their lives and communities by fostering dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect to promote peace and unity among the youth.
To develop peacebuilding skills and leadership qualities among the campers through interactive workshops, teamwork activities, and collaborative projects that instill values of fair play, tolerance, and effective conflict resolution strategies.
To create an opportunity for young leaders to inspire a generation of peacebuilders to improve their communication and writing abilities and commit to fostering inclusive societies and sustainable peace.
PTFP DAY ONE - ARRIVAL
The 8th annual Peace Through Fair Play Youth Camp was hosted in Zorzor at the E.J. Flomo Hotel. On day one, the campers arrive from different areas around Lofa County, such as Salayea, Zorzor, Kolahun, Vahun, Polahwu, Massabolahun, Foya, Voinjama, Fissebu, Borkeza, etc. The PTFP Youth Camp is designed to empower and educate 50 Campers from July 6th to 12th, 2024. The campers had many learning experiences on camp, but the first day began with registration, team arrangement, and settling of basic ground rules.
Madam Gbowee led the rules' writing and lectured them about “Community.” What is a community and its characteristics? Its members, the expectations of community members, and your role in building one. After all these question-and-answer exchanges, they distributed their rooms and tribal color groups. The campers were also taught how to use the hotel facilities and given funds of 107,500 LD to compete as a team based on question-answer and games or points for teamwork and leadership purposes. They were divided into five color groups: Green, Yellow, Orange, Blue, and Brown, and they voted on their leadership.
THE TRIBAL GROUP AT THE PEACE THROUGH FAIR PLAY(PTFP) YOUTH CAMP
PTFP DAY 2 - CIVIL CRISIS & UNDERSTANDING CONFLICT
Day two of the Peace through Fair Play (PTFY) Youth Camp was filled with energy, learning, and introspection, and the day started at 5 am with an invigorating morning called “Rise and Shine,” where campers gathered for a dynamic morning exercise designed to boost their physical and mental energy. Through a series of stretches, aerobic activities, and motivational chants, campers not only woke up their bodies but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. This session emphasized the importance of starting the day with a clear mind and a healthy body, ready to embrace the day's challenges and learning opportunities. Later, they showered and began at 7 am with a sumptuous breakfast to kickstart their activities. The core of day two activities was a deeply impactful workshop on understanding conflict. This session was particularly poignant as it delved into the history and impact of Liberia's 14-year civil crisis in Liberia. How, why, where, and when did the war start? Campers were introduced to the origins and complexities of Liberia's civil war, exploring the social, economic, and political factors that contributed to the conflict. Through discussions and interactive sessions, they gained a deeper understanding of how historical grievances and divisions can escalate into widespread violence. This reflection was not only an educational experience but also a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and unity.
Moreover, they also discussed Conflict Resolution Strategies, which build on their understanding of conflict, and then transitioned to exploring strategies for resolving conflicts within their own communities. How can they engage in role-playing exercises, group discussions, and brainstorming sessions to identify effective ways to address and resolve disputes peacefully? Topics included active listening, empathy, negotiation, and the importance of community involvement in fostering a culture of peace.
The combination of physical activity, recreational games, and profound learning made Day Two a memorable and transformative experience for all participants in the PTFP Youth Camp to understand conflict and equip essential knowledge and skills to become peace ambassadors in their communities. The lessons learned today are a palpable sense of empowerment to foster peace and resolve conflicts constructively in their own lives, which will undoubtedly have a lasting impact and help to build a more peaceful and resilient future for all.
PTFP DAY 3 - OUR PEACE & SUSTAINABILITY
Day Three of the Peace through Fair Play (PTFP) Youth Camp was an enriching blend of theoretical exploration and practical learning for all Campers. The day's agenda centered on understanding peace and learning how to cultivate it daily. The morning session began with “Rise & Shine” to energize our minds and bodies, and we went to the conference hall for a refreshing breakfast. Later, Madam Gbowee dived into an in-depth discussion on the topic, What is Peace? Campers engaged in interactive dialogues, sharing their own definitions and perceptions of peace. They explored various dimensions of peace, including Inner Peace -The importance of maintaining a calm and positive state of mind; Social Peace -The building of harmonious relationships and resolving conflicts amicably; and Global Peace - Which is understanding the role of justice, equality, and cooperation among nations. Following this, the focus shifted to “How do we foster Peace in our everyday lives?” The Campers brainstormed practical ways to integrate peace-building into their daily routines. Some key strategies discussed included Practicing empathy and active listening in interactions, Resolving conflicts through dialogue and compromise, Promoting inclusivity and respect for diversity, and Engaging in community service and peaceful activism.
In the afternoon, the campers embarked on a field trip to Lormazue Cassava Farm, a thriving agricultural community managed by a dedicated group of women farmers. This visit was not only an opportunity to learn practical farming skills but also a chance to delve into the region's cultural heritage. The women farmers warmly welcomed the campers and began by demonstrating essential Cassava farming techniques. Campers learned how to weed grass among crops, the correct methods of planting, and overall farm maintenance. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into sustainable agriculture and the hard work of producing food. After returning from the farm, Mr. David Zaza lectured about our rich cultural heritage. He shared stories about the history and traditions of the Lorma, Kissi, and Kpelleh tribes and how we migrated to his land. Campers learned about traditional farming practices, the significance of various crops, and the cultural etiquette that has been passed down through generations. This included the origins of these tribes and their contributions to the region's history and cultural landscape.
The farming experience was particularly impactful, underscoring the importance of community, tradition, and sustainable living. The campers were left with a deeper appreciation for the role of women in agriculture and the rich cultural tapestry of the Lorma, Kissi, and Kpelleh tribes. They returned to the camp with a strengthened commitment to peace-building and a greater respect for their community's cultural and agricultural heritage. Day Three was not just about learning; it was about connecting with the land, the people, and the enduring spirit of peace and tradition.
PTFP DAY FOUR - OUR COMMUNITY & TRADITIONAL HERITAGE
The PTFP Day Four was all about community engagement and cultural enrichment. The training aimed to help participants understand community building and service put this knowledge into action through community service, and end with an exciting cultural dance session. The morning began with our regular exercise, “Rise & Shine,” and breakfast at 7 am. Later, a thought-provoking discussion on the topics, What is Community Building and Community Service? How Can We Build Our Community or Render Services in Our Various Communities? The campers explored the concepts of community building and service, understanding them as essential components of creating strong, supportive, and resilient communities. Key points included: Community Building is the process of fostering connections among community members, promoting cooperation, and developing a shared sense of purpose. Community Service is Voluntary action taken to improve the community, address needs, and contribute to the well-being of all members. They also brainstormed practical ways to build and serve their communities. Some ideas discussed were Organizing community events to bring people together, Volunteering in local projects and initiatives, Promoting cleanliness and environmental sustainability, Supporting local businesses and artisans, and Advocating for social justice and equality.
After the workshop, they put their theory into practice; campers dedicated part of their day to a community service project in Zorzor City. Armed with cleaning supplies and a spirit of teamwork, they set out to clean the streets and public spaces of the city. Campers worked together to pick up litter, sweep streets, and tidy parks and common areas. This activity not only beautified the city but also instilled a sense of pride and responsibility among the campers.
Community members appreciated the effort, and many joined in, fostering a collective spirit of care for the environment, including the Representative of the District. The day concluded with a vibrant cultural dance session. Campers had the opportunity to learn traditional dances, immersing themselves in the region's rich cultural heritage. They learned about the history and significance of these dances, understanding how they convey stories, celebrate milestones, and strengthen community bonds. As the day ended, campers reflected on the importance of community involvement and cultural appreciation. They returned to the camp with a deeper understanding of their roles as active citizens and custodians of their cultural legacy. Day Four was a testament to the power of community and the beauty of tradition, leaving lasting impressions on all who participated.
PTFP DAY 6 -AWARD’S DAY
The campers wrote an open letter to their lawmakers, demanding improvements in education policies, especially for rural areas. They emphasized the need for Quality Education by enhancing the curriculum to meet global standards and prepare students for future challenges, Access to Resources by ensuring that schools are equipped with the necessary materials and facilities, Teacher Training by providing ongoing professional development for educators to improve teaching quality, and Student Support to Implement programs to support students' scholarships, mental health, and technical training.
The open letter to lawmakers was a significant step in their journey as active and informed citizens, demonstrating their determination to contribute to positive change in their communities. Later, they took group pictures at various sites, including the Executive Mansion, Capital Building, and Temple of Justice. They later moved to the Monrovia City Hall for Lunch and had serious sessions and impactful discussions on Peer Pressure and Drug Addiction led by Rev. Caleb Domah. The focus was on understanding and combating peer pressure and drug addiction, centered around the critical topics of exploring the nature of peer pressure and understanding how it can influence their decisions and behaviors. Discussions highlighted the following Types of Peer Pressure: Direct, indirect, positive, and negative influences. However, more discussions were conducted on coping strategies, such as building self-confidence, seeking support from trusted individuals, and making independent decisions.
The conversation then shifted to drug addiction, focusing on its causes, effects, and prevention strategies. Key points such as Causes and Effects: Understanding how peer pressure, curiosity, and stress can lead to drug use and the devastating impact addiction can have on health, relationships, and future prospects. However, they were advised on prevention and Support methods: Recognizing the importance of education, early intervention, and seeking help from professionals and support groups. These sessions on peer pressure and drug addiction provided campers with essential knowledge and coping strategies for the rising problem among our youth. As the day concluded, the campers returned with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of their roles in society.
PTFP DAY 6 -AWARD’S DAY
The morning began with breakfast and later with devotion. Madam Gbowee led the training session, which was dedicated to discussing What collective action we can take as campers to build our nation. How do we envision the future? Campers brainstormed ideas and shared their thoughts on how they could contribute to nation-building. Some key points include Community Service Projects by Initiating and participating in projects that address local issues, such as clean-up drives, tree planting, and educational programs. Advocacy and Awareness: raising awareness about critical social issues through campaigns, social media, and community meetings. Youth Leadership: taking on leadership roles in schools and communities to inspire and mobilize other young people. Collaboration: working with local organizations, governments, and other youth groups to amplify their impact. In envisioning the future, they reflected on their experiences and discussed their hopes and plans for the future. Key visions included: Empowered Communities: Using the skills and knowledge gained at the camp to empower their communities, promoting peace, education, and development. Personal Growth: Continuing their personal development by seeking further education, engaging in community service, and nurturing their talents. Sustainable Change: Working towards sustainable solutions for their communities' social, economic, and environmental challenges.
The day's highlight was the awarding ceremony, where the best camper “Mohammed Jawaned” was honored with the prestigious Peace Ambassador title. This award recognized their outstanding leadership, commitment to peace, and active participation throughout the camp. The Blue tribe was the best team, which accumulated the most money in their bank accounts “ from various activities and was also recognized. These activities included questions and answers, news reading, morning devotion, games, talents, and more. The funds were distributed among team members based on their contributions and achievements over the camp period. As they returned to their communities, these young leaders carried a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to peace and progress. The camp experience equipped them with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to make a positive impact, and the title of Peace Ambassador served as a reminder of their potential to lead and inspire.
