Relection; Shahidan

I never know what to expect on camping trips, but I thoroughly enjoyed Youth Attack camp for a variety of reasons.

On the first day, we departed to Smk Shah Alam in the morning. Honestly, I felt quite nervous since this is my first experience in conducting such a camp. My hands were sweating at the moment when we arrived at school. This is because I have to conduct the first slot which is Ice Breaking sessions with students. When I walked around the school and saw students here, my first impression was they might be uncontrollable. I knew this is not a cluster school which we can expert all students are kind and controllable, so I must take this opportunity to challenge myself in handling this situation. My slot started at 2.30 o’clock but I wait for them earlier in the outdoor hall since I need to prepare some useful stuff. Finally, all the students come and sit everywhere because they didn’t know where to gather. I tried to ask them to sit together and luckily, they obey my instructions. At first, I thought they would sit scattered but all of them tried to sit in line and make it seem organized. That moment taught me a precious lesson and broke my bad impression toward them. Now, I learned to not judges people quickly without knowing them deeply.

On second days, we began the programme with Zumba and dance session. That session was led by two facilitators which both of them are girls. I really enjoyed and exciting to dance in front of people. We also organizing “inspire to aspire” slot which aimed to help the student in digging their potential and answering to their concerns. During the slot, students are required to write their concern in sticky notes and facilitators will collect its then paste on the whiteboards. Each facilitator is required to pick up one of the sticky notes then response to student’s concern by giving some advice or tips. I took this chance to read all their concern and after that, I felt pity and sympathy for them. I knew they already tried the best to cope with their problems but lack of motivation had been a barrier to them to be persistent in what they do. I tried my best to give advice and motivations so that it can inspire them to make a transformation in their life.

On third days, I felt tired and also sad because this is my last day with those students. 3 days 2 nights with them was really taught me meaningful lessons and experiences. It also reminds me of my life during secondary school. it’s a pleasure for me to organize this camp and having fun with them.