A group of Calgary teens were given the chance to spend time in Alberta’s great outdoors this week thanks to the Muslim Families Network Society.
Camp MFNS took over Camp Kindle in Water Valley this week to bring together muslin youth from various backgrounds for some fun and to learn some leadership skills.
The four-day program hopes to teach the teens to make better decisions, develop cross-cultural communication techniques and how to handle adversity.
Rawan Theban and Rama Alsaid met just a few days ago and have found that they have a lot in common.
Both are from Syria and they live close to each other in Calgary so can continue their new friendship when the camp concludes.
“The camp is so nice, I like the place. I met a new friend and a new place and I’m so glad because I try something new and games,” said Rama. “And to learn the Canadian culture because it’s my new home.”
“It's so good, the people of Canada and Calgary are so nice. I like Canada, I like Calgary, and people in Canada,” said Rawan. “Canada now, it’s my country.”
The camp is for Muslim youth of both genders who are 12 to 18 year olds and they are supervised by Camp MFNS volunteers and Camp Kindle coordinators.
“They all share a common value, which is they're all Canadian, they're all living in this beautiful country and they're enjoying the camp, having fun and they are all Muslim,” said Khaled Chaabani, camp coordinator.
Youssef Chaabani has lived in Canada for nine years and tries to help out even though his Arabic is a bit rusty.
“If they need to know something in English or they don't understand something I can kind of explain it to them, because I know a little bit of Arabic so yah,” said Youssef Chaabani. “I think being at this camp really helps improve my Arabic skills.”
The teens had to leave the electronics at home and tried rock climbing, hiking, zip lining and a number of arts and craft activities.
The camp runs from August 29 to September 1 and organizers hope to make it an annual event.
For more information on Camp MFNS, click HERE.
