VIRTUAL CAMPING EXPERIENCE KEEPS SCOUTS ENGAGED

THURSDAY AUGUST 12, 2021: PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – The National Scouts Association of Trinidad and Tobago delivered a stimulating camp experience to 500 young persons between the ages of 7 to 26.  A TT$10,000 partnership with Digicel Foundation was able to aid the National Scouts Association in hosting the first of its kind virtual camping experience- “Imaginarium” from August 1-6.

As part of its theme ‘Be Prepared’, The National Scouts Association of Trinidad and Tobago found a likely partner in the Digicel Foundation, whose Preparing You programme encourages disaster resilience and preparedness.  In addition to the funding, the collaboration provided AR Stickers, emergency pouches, masks and hand sanitizer for the campers

Together with the badge-earning sessions, and STEM activities, the Digicel Foundation’s Masters of Prep VR disaster preparedness game was featured as one of the key activities. Approximately thirty (30) campers selected the VR disaster preparedness experience and subsequently interviewed to share what they had learnt. Digicel Foundation Project Officer, Natalie Anne De Silva was on hand at Boy Scouts Association and National Scouts Headquarters, San Fernando to safely engage with these young persons while following all Covid-19 protocols. These participants were representatives from 3^rd Asja Sea Scouts, 31^st Trinidad Sea Scouts, 3^rd Trinidad Sea Scouts, 1^st Arouca Air Scouts, St. Paul’s Cub Pact, 1^st TML Cub Pact and various Police Youth Clubs.

The campers were encouraged to download the App which is available FREE via the Google Playstore and iOS App Store in order to support further disaster preparedness discussions with their scout leaders. Scouting uniquely prepares its members to redefine their boundaries, push past them and emerge from the experience with the confidence.

Parents who accompanied their children to the experience profusely thanked both the Digicel Foundation and National Scouts Association for the camping experience activities. Some of the parents shared that they were pleased that their child was able to have the opportunity for interaction and engaging safely in fun, educational activities during the pandemic.