Global Encounters is a transformational, once in a lifetime summer program that enables Jamati members enrolled in high school to acquire the skills and values needed for future leaders. It cultivates values of service, culture, and leadership in students through interactive and informative sessions that are not only intellectually enriching, but also help participants explore ways to serve the communities living around them. In July 2018, Global Encounters took place in Mombasa, Kenya, where XX students from around the world gathered for the program.
A unique feature of the camp was that all learning was followed by practical implementation. Participants worked with schools, where they engaged students and staff to identify and address problems confronting these institutions. Sharing her experience, Mehak Lalani said, “Global Encounters is a life-changing experience, which gave me memories to cherish my entire life. This camp sparks the ability to question, inquire and most importantly explore your inner self. The way I looked at the world changed after this experience. I learnt to be more patient, tolerant and self-reliant. Global Encounters invoked the spirit of service and Khidmat not only to the Ismaili jamat but also to the community in which we live.”
Said another participant, “My favorite concept at camp was mutuality. We experienced learning and achieving both while serving at the camp. There is this mutual connection, this emotional link which forms with people you are working with that not only allows you to work with more understanding and more passion, but can also teach you life lessons.”
The Kenyan National Council President Nawaz delivered an inspirational address to GE participants at Nairobi Jamatkhana to highlight problems of the societies around us and the expectations of Hazir Imam from all of us, as future leaders. He spoke about increasing institutional capacity, promoting pluralism, the concept of one Jamat and the importance of always staying connected with our faith.
