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