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Seeds of Peace Camp, Maine, USA

Branard College, Columbia University

Jan 2024 – Feb 2024

Programe Overview

Each summer, hundreds of teenagers and educators engage with each other across lines of conflict—sharing meals, living spaces, and learning experiences in a traditional summer camp program. For many, this type of interaction is impossible at home, and Camp is the first time they are engaging their peers from the ‘other side.’

During daily dialogue sessions guided by professional facilitators, campers confront each other over competing historical narratives, share personal experiences of conflict, and tackle topics that fuel oppression, hatred, and violence in and between their communities.

It is here that personal and interpersonal change begins, as perceptions and attitudes shift in the face of a new reality they create at Camp. As participants find their own voices, form relationships, and gain insights into the root issues that divide them, they build greater levels of confidence, trust, respect, and empathy, which inspire their commitment to work for change at home.

Eligibility

Candidates are typically between 14-16 years of age. We are looking for young people who are passionate about their communities, are curious, can think critically, have an open mind, are willing to be challenged, show leadership potential, and are able to communicate well in English.

Benefits

  • Activate and sharpen leadership skills by developing; critical listening skills, a deeper understanding of what makes a strong leader, and fresh insights on conflict and conflict resolution. The returning campers may lend support to and mentor first time campers.
  • Become part of a global community of campers where they engage in dialogue sessions facilitated by professionals and reflect on their own identities and gain insights into the dynamics that perpetuate conflict across borders.
  • Enhance the communication skills by participating in group activities that reinforce trust, cooperation and communication, ultimately forging stronger bonds between dialogue group members.Participate in athletic and arts activities designed to develop leadership skills, foster creative expression, and strengthen the values of respect, good communication, and teamwork across lines of conflict.
  • Immerse in the diversity of faiths at Seeds of Peace and witness peers’ religious practices first hand and engage in interfaith dialogue.