About Global Encounters
Global Encounters is an Institution established by Mawlana Hazar Imam that brings together the flagship international programmes, Jubilee Games, Global Encounters Camps, Jubilee Arts, Heritage Journeys and many more new initiatives that nurture arts, sports and talent development in the global Jamat. Global Encounters unites the Jamat through transformational experiences and programmes.
About the Programme
What will I learn and do at Global Encounters Camps?
Global Encounters Camps focus on service learning, cultural exchange, and leadership development. During the programme: participants will learn from a diverse group of professionals, foster meaningful relationships with Ismaili youth worldwide, broaden their perspectives in thought-provoking and challenging sessions, lead and participate in community service projects, gain cultural competencies, and explore what it means to be a global citizen. This is the only programme currently open to Ismaili participants from all around the world and, as such, offers youth an opportunity to explore faith and ethics while living in a global camp community.
What is the participant experience like at Global Encounters Camps?
We know that every experience is different depending on the participant. We hope that each participant will leave having experienced a new culture, formed deep friendships with peers from around the world, participated in a meaningful service project, grappled with some of the challenging issues facing our planet, and had an opportunity to learn and practice leadership.
What is the participant-to-staff ratio at the camp?
To help meet our objectives and create an optimal learning environment, we believe giving each participant attention, care, and resources is essential to help them develop to their full potential. Our participant-to-staff ratio is kept exceptionally low at 8 participants for every facilitator, and participants have plenty of opportunities to engage regularly with additional mentors and faculty.
What is the advantage of being located at the Aga Khan Academies and Aga Khan University?
Global Encounters Camps are planned collaboratively with the Aga Khan Academies, the Aga Khan University, and the Aga Khan Councils in Kenya, India, and Pakistan. The Aga Khan Academies and Aga Khan University are globally recognised centres of excellence with state-of-the-art facilities. Through these partnerships, participants can take advantage of the exceptional teachers, staff and campuses while exploring local culture and life. Participants learn about the extraordinary work of the AKDN through hands-on experiences.
When will the Global Encounters Camps take place?
2024 Global Encounters Camps:
● Global Encounters India, hosted at the Aga Khan Academy in Hyderabad from 05 July to 28 July 2024
● Global Encounters Kenya, hosted at the Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa from 10 July to 03 August 2024
● Global Encounters Pakistan, hosted at the Aga Khan University in Pakistan from 10 July to 10 August 2024
● Global Encounters Expedition Camp in East Africa from 20 December 2024 to 05 January 2025
● Global Encounters Expedition Camp in India from 20 December 2024 to 05 January 2025
● Global Encounters Expedition Camp in Pakistan from 20 December 2024 to 05 January 2025
Please note that additional locations may be added, and dates may change.
Can participants use the camp to accumulate school credit?
The classes participants take at Global Encounters Camps cannot be used to gain official school credits. However, the camp curriculum will provide participants with a foundation in international development, leadership skills, and local culture and history that they can use as a springboard to pursue their interests once they return to school. Opportunities include working with faculty to present their experiences to peers, creating new service projects, taking similar courses and leading outreach events.
Every participant will receive a certificate showing they have completed the programme and earned service hours, which may be used to fulfil participation requirements at their respective secondary school. Credit is contingent on approval by the participant's school.
What is the language requirement for Global Encounters Camps?
The language of instruction for Global Encounters is English. Participants will be required to have proficiency in the English language.
Will participants be attending Jamatkhana every day?
We will have a prayer space on campus, and congregational services will be held daily. We will also have the opportunity to visit local Jamatkhanas in the host country.
What will the food be like during camp?
Three meals and two snacks are served every day. The menu will be influenced by the local region and rotates daily. We make sure that there are nutritious options at every meal. Whether you are an adventurous or more conservative eater, we ensure that there is
something for everyone. Mealtimes allow participants to come together with people from diverse traditions at one table.
If selected to participate in Global Encounters, how much time should I allocate to camp?
Pre-camp: Following your acceptance as a participant, you are required to participate in the pre-programme webinars. You will also have to complete pre-assignments to get oriented to the context and content of the camp you are attending. Lastly, you'll also be responsible for ensuring you complete all the requirements to travel overseas, including but not limited to booking your flight, acquiring visas, and providing a complete vaccination record.
During camp: Our July programme is approximately 25 days, and our December programme is an estimated 16 days on-site in the host country.
Where can I find more information on Global Encounters Camps, health and safety protocols, and the application process?
You can learn more about the Global Encounters Camps by visiting our website at gecamps.ismaili or follow us on Instagram @globalencounters. We will be holding information sessions soon. More information will be posted on our website and Instagram.
Application Process
When is the application deadline for Global Encounters Camps in 2024?
Participants: The application deadline is 21 January 2024 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time (NA Time). We will not accept forms submitted after the deadline. Please take note that a fully completed application consists of three parts:
1) Your participant application form
2) A parent/guardian form
3) Teacher/mentor recommendation form
All three of these must be submitted by the deadline Sunday 21 January 11:59 PM Pacific Time
How long does it take to complete the Global Encounters Camps Participant application?
The amount of time required to complete the application varies from one participant to another. You are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to start the application early to carefully think through and reflect on your responses. Application questions can be found on our website at gecamps.ismaili. Be sure to reach out to your teacher/mentor and parents/guardian early so they have enough time to submit their reference. Your parent/guardian will also have to complete a form on your behalf before the deadline.
Can I participate in Global Encounters Camps if I attended CONNECT?
Yes, you may participate in Global Encounters if you have attended CONNECT before.
How can I apply to Global Encounters Camps?
Applications are available online at globalencountersprogramme.org. If you have previously applied to Global Encounters Camps, CONNECT, or the eChess tournament, you can SIGN IN to your account using your email address and password. If this is your first application, please SIGN UP for an account. Once on the site, complete all the steps for your respective
application. All interested applicants who have access to the Internet should apply online. In special cases where internet access is unavailable or limited, applicants can contact their Jurisdiction Coordinator and request paper applications.
What is the profile of a Global Encounters Camps participant?
Global Encounters seeks passionate students currently enrolled in secondary education. Applications are open to students between the ages of 15 years old to 18 years old by 1 June 2024. Eligible applicants must be current high-school students. Highly motivated and engaged students interested in service, leadership, and international development and are excited to meet people from across the world, are encouraged to apply. Participants must speak English with proficiency.
How many participants will be admitted to the 2024 Global Encounters Camps?
We are exploring various group sizes that promote a positive and transformative participant experience. All of our camps seek to have a diverse group of participants that reflect the global nature of our Jamat. We look forward to welcoming around 350 participants to our East Africa and South Asia camps.
Is admission to Global Encounters Camps guaranteed upon application submission? Due to the overwhelming number of applications received, admission is NOT guaranteed upon application submission. Once you have submitted your complete application, it will undergo review by an independent panel. The Global Encounters Camps Admissions Team will share a formal letter with you in April with your application status. Feel free to use the “Contact Us” feature on the registration portal if you have questions or email [email protected]. We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Will there be any sessions to assist us with completing the application form?
Yes! We will host various sessions to share information on completing an application and sharing the experiences of volunteers and participants. We will communicate the dates and locations of these sessions on our website gecamps.ismaili and our Instagram page (@globalencounters).
Who can I ask to be a teacher/mentor recommendation to support my application?
Please ensure that the person you have chosen as your reference can speak about you personally and academically, and knows your character. You can ask a coach, mentor, teacher, or STEP teacher to serve as your recommender.
Are there multiple forms to complete and submit for a participant form to be reviewed?
Yes, there are multiple forms to fill out while completing the application for Global Encounters Camps. You will find all the required forms within the application package, including the parent/guardian and teacher/mentor recommendation forms. All forms should be submitted by Sunday 21 January 2024. You can track the submission of all forms on your dashboard at globalencountersprogramme.org.
I attended an in-person Global Encounters Camp previously as a participant. Can I apply to participate in the 2024 Camps as a participant?
We are glad to hear about your positive experience at a Global Encounters Camp! Unfortunately, due to the minimal availability of spots, we cannot accept returning
participants to Global Encounters Camps. However we always need Alumni volunteers for wider Global Encounters initiatives and if you are based in our GE Camps host countries then reach out to [email protected]. For Alumni between the ages of 18 to 30 explore our Internship opportunities which will be released soon.
Volunteering With Us
I want to volunteer at Global Encounters. Where can I apply to volunteer? Are local volunteers needed?
We are excited that you are considering a volunteer role. We are looking for professional individuals with experience and a passion for working with youth and are excited to share in participants’ journeys of learning about service, culture, and leadership.
Applications for the Facilitator role are open until 21 January 2024 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. Please contact your local Jurisdiction Coordinator or AKYSB member and inquire about any available local opportunities. You can also email us at: [email protected]
Other areas where support is required include:
● Operations and Logistics
● Health and Wellness Director
● Mental Health Support
● Risk Management Support
Individuals who want to be considered for the positions above should email their CV and the position they are interested in applying to [email protected].
If I am selected as a volunteer, will I need to complete a criminal background check?
Yes, everyone who volunteers at Global Encounters Camps must undergo a background check and a Jamati Institutional verification check. Further details will be provided once you are accepted into the programme.
Financial Aid and Fees
What is the cost of attending Global Encounters Camps? What does the fee include?
The programme fee is $4,075 USD for July and $2,975 USD for December camps. The fee covers accommodation, insurance, in-country ground and air transport, meals, qualified staff, and an excursion. International airfare from your home country to the host country, visa fees, vaccination costs, and personal souvenirs are not included in the programme fee.
I am unable to afford the programme fee. Should I still complete and apply?
Yes, you are encouraged to apply to Global Encounters Camps! Admission into Global Encounters Camps is on a needs-blind basis, and financial aid may be available to admitted participants who need support. All families are expected to contribute what they can to the programme fee.
Why is income verification required for the financial aid process?
Global Encounters Camps is committed to making financial assistance available for qualified applicants and encourages all families to contribute to their child’s participation. Evaluations and recommendations for financial aid are made through the respective National Councils in
each jurisdiction. Income verification documents and/or other financial information will be requested from parents/guardians to assess financial aid qualification. Information will be kept strictly confidential, but the documents are necessary for the National Councils to impartially determine and verify a candidate’s financial needs. Documents will be requested after programme acceptance. Please note that applicants are admitted on merit, and financial need will not be considered for programme acceptance.
Travelling to the Camp
How are travel arrangements being made to the Global Encounters Camps?
Participants must book their travel to Global Encounters Camps on their own or may work with the Jurisdiction Coordinator to participate in group travel, if applicable. Families will be contacted after programme acceptance regarding travel and flight recommendations to the host country. Jurisdiction Coordinators will work with each family to discuss travel logistics and requirements.
My school has been scheduled to take place during Global Encounters Camps. May I leave camp early?
To maintain the highest learning standards and a conducive community-building environment, participants will not be permitted to arrive at camp late or leave camp early.
Can participants extend their stay after camp?
Participants will only be allowed to extend their stay if a parent or approved guardian picks them up in person on the last day of the programme. Participants will be provided more information after programme acceptance on how to seek approval for an extended stay. Extended stays must be discussed in advance with the Global Encounters Central Office.
Other Questions
How often will participants be able to communicate with families during the programme?
The schedule is very rigorous; however, time will be given to participants to communicate back home with their families multiple times per week. Directors will also be sending regular programme updates, and participants will have the opportunity to email or call home when needed.
Will I be able to meet my family who lives in the host city during the programme?
Yes! Each camp will share when and where family visits can be accommodated in the schedule.
Can I bring a musical instrument to camp?
Yes, you may bring a musical instrument. However, it is your responsibility to manage and care for your musical instrument. Additionally, you will need to check for and comply with all regulations regarding safely transporting the instrument while travelling.
Individuals bringing any expensive instruments should consider procuring insurance in case of damage or loss.
Will the Global Encounters Camps Dates conflict with the GE Festival Dates in Dubai?
The GE Festival is being planned for 2024. We are working closely with the Dubai government and other partners to finalise the details. Dates will be shared with the Jamat in
due course. Regardless of whether you are intending on participating at the GE Festival as an Artist, Athlete or Attendee, we encourage you to apply and not miss this opportunity.
I have additional questions about the programme. How can I contact someone from the Global Encounters Camps Teams?
You can contact Global Encounters Camps at [email protected]. Each Jurisdiction has a Coordinator who supports applicants and participants at the country level. Please email us if you do not know who your Jurisdiction Coordinator is and would like to contact them.
