Wrexham scouts return from “trip of a lifetime” at World Scout Jamboree

Eleven Wrexham scouts have just returned from the trip of a lifetime in America after taking part in the 24th World Scout Jamboree.

The group joined 5,000 other Scouts from the UK and in total 45,000 from nearly every country in the world.

The Jamboree, which took place in West Virginia, offered the young people the chance to learn new life skills, take part in some high adventure activities, and make friends with Scouts from 150 countries around the world.

There were a huge range of activities available on the 14,000 acre Summit Bechtel Reserve, from 50mph zip lines, to Scuba diving and climbing on one of the largest man made climbing walls in the world.

Maisie Hughes, 15 from Coedpoeth, who was part of the North Wales Fluffy Dragons unit, said: “I got to meet and talk to so many scouts from other countries, the main thing I remember from all of them is their positivity and kindness which was very apparent from everyone from the very beginning.

“My favourite activities were white water rafting and individual paddle boarding because I hadn’t done either of them before so it was really cool to get to try them.”

“Since the beginning of the Jamboree process I have gained a lot more confidence as well as gaining both leadership and team work skills.

“I’ve gained so many friendships that will last a lifetime and memories of the best camp I’ve ever been on.”

The Jamboree itself was 12 days long, with trips to New York, Washington and Canada provided before and after, meaning the Scouts were away for almost three weeks.

Katrina Leeder, 15 from Penley said: “I gained experiences that will stay with me forever and got over my fear of being with lots of people at the same time.

“I really enjoyed the big zip. It was so fun to be so high up in the trees and see the site from a different view.

“I made friends from Scotland and the USA but also from Bangladesh which I really wasn’t expecting. Most people spoke English, but when they didn’t we signed and said little words.

“I think World Scout Jamborees are important as they bring all cultures and lifestyles together.”

World Scout Jamborees allow the participants to gain a level of independence, helping them to grow and mature whilst they are there.

Lesley Cole, a parent of one of the participants added: “Tom has gained many life skills during the whole process which will stay with him.

“His confidence has grown hugely through having to write emails or talk to new people regarding his fundraising.

“The whole experience has changed him. He definitely seems to have grown as a person as he has had to be more independent and deal with tiredness, extreme heat and living in quite different conditions for three weeks.

“I think the event is even more important in these times to emphasise understanding and tolerance to help our young people have a wealth of knowledge so they can lead us to a brighter future.”

UK Chief Scout Bear Grylls said: ‘World Scout Jamborees only happen every four years and tens of thousands of Scouts attend each one.

“They are incredible festivals of peace, friendship and adventure. Young people will make friends for life with people from over 150 countries, experience different food, language and culture while learning new skills. I’m sure it was the journey of a lifetime.”