Around 9AM, I arrived at a multi-event center in the beach district of Monsefu, just a tad south of Chiclayo. As we passed through the gates, I was immediately taken aback by the compound—a large grass field, with trees scattered about, a large two-story building with large windows and great balconies, and a pool with a cabana nearby. We walked around the building and entered a room to find 21 teenagers, several Peace Corps Volunteers, and ICPNA staff eating breakfast.
This was the ICPNA (Peruvian/North American Cultural Institute) Access Camp, day 2.
The Access Camp in my region is a three-day camp, partially funded by the U.S. Government. It’s for students in the Access Program, an after-school, English intensive program for economically disadvantaged youth backed by the Regional English Language Office, part of the State Department. In various countries, the RELO partners with multiple institutes to provide this service. While the program has an English emphasis, students also learn and develop leadership skills.
Peace Corps Volunteers have consistently participated in these camps, nationwide, though this was my first time—and I was only assisting for the one day. The camp, conducted in English 99% of the time, focused primarily on personal development. Topics ranged from identity, volunteerism, planning for the future, environmental issues and entrepreneurial skills. The kids, all almost fluent in English, participated actively and were truly engrossed in some of the topics.
I had the opportunity to do one of my favorite activities with campers—the “Cause and Effect Tree.” In groups, they split up to talk about the roots of bullying, litter, and alcoholism. They excitedly debated the issues and their short-term and long-term side-effects.
Later in the day, I aided another volunteer with her career planning exercise. One teen dreamt of being a professional MMA fighter, but only after he earned an engineering degree. Another professed that he wanted to be a DJ; and one girl declared she wanted to study astronomy and physics (a really cool combination). A handful had chosen other typical careers- doctor, lawyer, etc.
Their attitude was refreshing, and their hopes for their futures were creatively inspiring.
Of course, the camp wasn’t all lecture based. The kids socialized, practiced yoga, and even played in the pool during a rainstorm. They were eager to talk to us about the United States, what we liked and didn’t like about Peru, and so many other topics. While we shared with them, we also learned from them.
Though the day ended rather wet, the storm couldn’t dampen my spirits as I made the two-hour trek home. I felt rejuvenated once again, optimistic about the next generation of leaders I’ve encountered while in Peru.
Brittany McGee 