Character and Leadership Training for Thai Youths

Leading by Example, Serving in Action (in memory of King Bhumipol Adulayadej)

The training and practice of Leadership mostly goes un-noticed, till an excellent or tyrannical leader shows up at the scene. What we see at that moment in time has actually been trained and practiced over decades, which is why the work that our Foundation does in gathering, keeping and instilling strong moral values in children and youths is of ultimate importance. This unglamorous grind in the trials and errors of training energetic and radical youths goes a long way in building a compassionate and caring community, society and world for the Future.

Therefore, after the many months of preparation by our Core Young Leaders, which included brainstorming, planning and revising the program to make the camps a more relevant and impactful experience for all, the time drew near when the camps will take place.

When volunteers were needed, Gam said, “Yes, I will come to the office help in whatever way, to prepare for the camp.”  A number of young volunteers appeared at our office to prepare for the logistics of the camps, improve the activities and prepared for the logistics and gifts for campers.

Finally, just when the National Camps were round the corner, the young team of leaders were reminded to stay united, be exemplary in conduct and attitude and open to befriend and serve their fellow-campers when the camps drew near. This year was extra-special because a group of international youths from Cebu Philippines decided to fly over to Thailand to join us in the camps. This caused a heightened sense of excitement and anticipation for both young leaders and campers, because they had to go beyond their comfort zones to reach out in a foreign language, English.

The camps came the young leaders especially those who were more matured, lived by example, being responsible, and on the look-out for the younger inexperienced campers. Meanwhile the younger leaders experienced what being a servant leader meant, through the hands-on experiences that they went through, they learnt the precious lesson of what is actually involved, when taking up leadership responsibilities. Meanwhile the benefactors who are the campers thoroughly enjoyed themselves, quite oblivious to all the co-ordination and adaptations that was going on behind the scenes.

Kar, who did very well as the camp commandant for the girls’ camp said, “At first there were some problems about time management, so things got delayed.. adjustments were made.…  over-all the camp was great!”

 When Pure, the camp commandant for the boys’ camp said, “I will try my best to lead them (campers and those under the care of Foundation for Life) to be the next generation of leaders!”..I think he caught the Vision for the future generations!

The Foundation thanks all donors for your donation and look forward continued support from you, so that the Next Generation of Thai youths would grow up to emulate the virtues of the late King and bring the country to a higher and brighter future.

With best regards,

Vena Lung

Core Youth Leaders Preparing for Service

During the Summer Vacation, when most teenagers would rather be lazing around, playing with their computer games, or handphones, 30 young leaders of the Foundation met to prepare themselves to serve in the coming national camps for thai children and youths, so that all members may come together as one people in concord, love and respect for each other.

At the same time, because the whole nation of Thailand is in mourning for the demise of our beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadey for an entire year, the Foundation decided to let our young leaders also remember the work and efforts of the late King, by making very special appointment with the Chitralada Palace, for our leaders to visit the King's Projects, which is based in the His Majesty's Palace.

Thus a 2-day Retreat for our Core Youth Leaders was organised, where they were able to visit and understand the efforts of the late King in helping Thai people live a Life of Sufficiency, so that they may pass on this philosophy of life to their peers and those younger than they.

As the same time, they took the time to brain -storm and plan for meaningful and fun-filled activities for their friends, in the coming camp, in October.

When asked, Pinyo reflected, " i am impressed by what the late king had done for us as his people, and I will try my best to emmulate in his foot-steps, by being hard-working and mindful of others"

Karina, on the other hand, volunteered to be the camp caommandant for the coming national camp, saying," I have received much from all who had served to help me become the leader that I am today, so I would like to 'pay it forward' so to speak" (said with a grin on her face).

As our young leaders continue to think through and prepare for the coming October National camp, the Foundation would appreciate it very much if donors would remember them, and perhaps encourage them on, with donations, so that it may enable those kids who are under priviledged, to be also able to attend this camp, that has been planned for all members to enjoy each other's friendship, be reminded to live in Harmony.

The Foundation is thankful and ever grateful for alll the efforts and concern of donors to help Thai Children and Youths become the best that they can be.

Thank you!