No matter which camp you choose, key elements of the CONNECT experience are the same.
CONNECT provides you with opportunities to meet, get to know and bond with Ismaili peers from around the world. CONNECT offers workshops where you can explore a new interest, develop a passion, and learn new skills. Finally, CONNECT includes opportunities to explore and engage with faith, ethics and the exceptional work of the AKDN, and to take action on the pressing issues facing our globe.
SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE
Every day at camp will vary based on the theme, featured guests, and special activities.
However, you can expect that each day will have four key components: CABIN, EXPLORE, CREATE, and GATHER.
EXPLORE: Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)
CONNECT offers opportunities for youth to learn about, discuss and take action on the pressing issues that face our world. Our programmes are created in collaboration with agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
Through virtual field trips, participants will see the innovative work of AKDN, hear from voices on the ground and learn about the impact on communities.
Participants will have opportunities to deepen their understanding of the AKDN's work and the ethics which underpin it. CONNECT offers a forum to learn about approaches to development that are holistic, community-driven, research-informed, long-term and sustainable.
Some of the agencies that youth have explored through CONNECT include:
- Aga Khan Academies
- Aga Khan Agency for Habitat
- Aga Khan Foundation
- Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development
- Aga Khan Museum
- Aga Khan Trust for Culture
- Aga Khan University
- University of Central Asia
CREATE: Skill-Building Workshops
Are you a budding journalist? Have you always wanted to make a film or perhaps start a project in your community? Do you want to learn how to code or kickstart your own business? It’s all possible at CONNECT!
CREATE workshops are one of the most exciting parts of the camp.
Every participant will have a chance to choose one workshop to participate in for the duration of the programme. Workshops are led by educators, artists, entrepreneurs and young professionals. Participants can discover new concepts, develop skills and have an opportunity to be creative and collaborate with others. Here are some examples of workshops.
In 2020 and 2021, CONNECT brought together nearly 2,500 youth from 42 countries!
One of the best parts of the programme is the opportunity to meet and make friends from around the world, encounter true diversity, and experience the unity of being part of a single community.
During CONNECT, participants will have fun engaging in community-building activities that bring our camp family together by creating bonds and connections across borders. Here are some opportunities to get to know others and build community at CONNECT:
CABIN: Every participant is part of a virtual cabin that starts and ends the day together. This group stays the same for the entire duration of the camp so participants can get to know each other better.
GATHER: Every day, we will “GATHER” for engaging activities. Examples include games, escape rooms, virtual home visits, human library, talent night, mini-workshops. Expect a lot of laughter and bonding!
CONNECT LOUNGE: Participants can come to hang out informally in the lounge in between sessions. There are virtual rooms for people to meet and various activities such as open mic, speed meeting, music and games.
Registration for CONNECT 2022 is now open! Visit globalencountersprogramme.org to register!
Please visit our “Frequently Asked Questions” page for more information. If you don’t find an answer to your question there, you can email us at [email protected].
