The road to the Jamboree
Many youngsters across the county took part in a Jamboree selection weekend which included bases applicable to the Jamboree.
Jenny McMurran's story below really gives the young people an insight into what the Jamboree journey involves.
22nd World Scout Jamboree preparations
As I open the final doors of my Jamboree issue countdown calendar; the biggest event in scouting is about to begin, and my preparations leading up to it are coming to an end.
First of all, there was the selection event. However, instead of interviews and tests, it was a weekend camp packed full of activities and challenges for us to demonstrate our enthusiasm, confidence and teamwork skills. We were all issued “Pick Me” t-shirts, and 36 of the applicants were chosen to represent Devon at the 22nd World Scout Jamboree. After receiving my acceptance letter I couldn’t stop smiling for several weeks!
Afterwards, there was a welcome event, this was an opportunity to meet the rest of the unit, and find out more about the Jamboree event and preparations. It was clear that it would be a truly unforgettable experience.
With a total cost of £2,200 to fund, I spent a lot of time raising money for the trip. Although this was hard work, I actually really enjoyed the challenge: I cycled 25 miles for a sponsored bike ride; served drinks at a charity event; took part in bag packing; sold home-made jewellery and jam; and with support from the Teignbridge district, donations and grants, the sum quickly became less daunting.
As the 22nd World Scout Jamboree is going to be hosted in Sweden, I also held a “Fika”- a Swedish tradition of coffee and cakes. This involved planning games and music, writing invites, baking cakes, making jewellery and sewing things to sell. It also enabled me to get in touch with some Swedish friends who helped with baking some traditional Swedish delicacies for the event.
I have also greatly enjoyed the Devon unit training camps throughout the year, which have prepared us for the Swedish Jamboree by teaching us camp skills, team-work, and enabling us to form a unit identity by designing our own t-shirts, badges, socks and sweets. In addition they have given us the opportunity to try new activities, such as caving, fire tricks, and pioneering. We also got to meet the Somerset unit and share our experiences. As I was assigned the role of patrol leader, these camps have also developed my confidence, leadership and managing skills.
Furthermore, being on the Devon Jamboree unit, we’ve been given added responsibilities, such as helping to plan and run the Devon scout camp “Run 2 the Fun.” This involved helping to run bases and performing in the opening and closing ceremonies.
Overall, I have had a great year preparing for the 22nd World Scout Jamboree, and taken part in things that I would have never even dreamed of, I can’t wait for the actual event to begin!
Jenny McMurran
Devon Contingent Member
