BY PHUMZILE NDLOVU
MBABANE – Elaborating minds, igniting purpose!
The Summer Camp ’24 was held over the weekend at the Castle Hotel, providing an enriching environment for a transformative journey that spanned over six impactful days.
The camp is dedicated to empowering youth in life skills, leadership, and ministry, utilising performing arts such as music, dance, poetry, and hip-hop as powerful mediums of communication. The transformative journey of Summer Camp Sukuma began in April 2004, during the first term holidays, and has continued to empower the youth ever since.
When reached for comment, Thamsanqa Sibandze KrTC, who was one of the facilitators, said, “The camp welcomes individuals within the age categories of 13–19 and 20–27, fostering a diverse and vibrant community of young minds.”
He shared with this publication some of the topics that were discussed. He said, “The camp’s topics are dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of youth culture and the church. This year’s discussions delved into the intellectual aspect of spirituality, covering themes such as “Minding the Mind,” “Elevation to Ultimacy,” “Turning Your Scars into Stars,” and “Dominion Characteristics.”
When asked which art codes were discussed, he said, “Performing arts take centre stage, embracing music, dance, poetry, and hip-hop as mediums through which participants can explore and express their creative potential.” He also revealed that they had 44 sessions that were designed to provide a comprehensive experience, covering a spectrum of topics ranging from personal development and leadership to artistic expression and spiritual growth.
It is worth mentioning that the 2024 camp was led by a dynamic team of facilitators, including Pastor Thethe, Pastor Likhasilenjulo, Pastor Basta, Pastor Sifiso, Pastor Emmanuel, Londiwe Mlotjwa, KrTC of Hip Hop, X.O. the Hip Hop Apostle, and Vivianne Dumas.
Sibandze shared that the camp does not have official sponsors; it is sustained by the generosity of individuals who make donations and sponsor kids, contributing to the impactful experience.
The camp boasts a legacy of relevance and a life-changing impact on its participants. However, fundraising has presented an on-going challenge, emphasising the need for continued support.
Sibandze invited those who hadn’t attended the camp to do so. ”Those yet to experience Summer Camp Sukuma are missing out on two decades of making the gospel relevant to young people, unlocking their potential, and transforming lives through a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and spirituality.”
It’s worth mentioning that Summer Camp Sukuma isn’t just an event; it’s a movement that transcends boundaries, shaping the narrative of the youth experience for over two decades. The camp is a catalyst for personal growth, creativity, and spiritual exploration, laying the foundation for an extraordinary journey ahead.
“As we reflect on the transformative impact of Summer Camp Sukuma, we extend an enthusiastic invitation to young minds and their families to join us in January 2025 for another unparalleled experience. Your attendance is not just an opportunity; it’s a step towards unlocking your potential and embracing a journey of personal, creative, and spiritual growth, shared the facilitator.
He further invited sponsors, collaborators, and partners to join them in this noble endeavour. Their support, particularly in the form of financial contributions, will directly contribute to the seamless execution of the camp, ensuring access to essential learning resources for a holistic and impactful experience. Together, let’s shape the future by investing in the lives of the next generation. Join us on this extraordinary journey, and let’s make a lasting impact together.
The cost of attendance for the latest camp was E1200, providing a valuable investment in the holistic development of participants. The next camp is scheduled for January 2025, with additional workshops planned every three months to maintain the momentum.
