Camp Benin

The coastal town of Grand-Popo, Benin hosted our youth camp from July 27 to Aug. 3, 2025, bringing together 21 teenagers from Benin, Côte d'Ivoire and Togo under the theme “Building on the Foundation” (1 Corinthians 3:11).

Local elder Pierre Ogoudele directed the camp alongside his wife Rose, with Werner Solórzano from the Home Office and two U.S. volunteers: Joanna Bradford and her son Bill Bradford. Days began at 6 a.m. with calisthenics, followed by a structured schedule that included morning interactive Bible studies, English classes and several rotating activities: volleyball, baseball, archery, swimming lessons, rugby and workshop sessions where participants made bracelets and keychains. Thursday and Friday featured competitions and skills testing across all sport activities.

Post-camp evaluation showed improvements in participants’ spiritual commitment and behavior. As Mr. Ogoudele noted in his follow-up report, the camp is “a powerful transformation tool for our youth,” since the structured program strengthens their relationship with God and builds lasting connections with like-minded teens from the region as they navigate their challenges as young people in West Africa.

The camp concluded Saturday evening with a campfire where there was dancing, singing and humor. All participants received medals and merit certificates were awarded to those who excelled in the various sports competitions.

This youth camp provides regional teenagers a place to gather, develop skills and grow in their faith. The local team's commitment and the program’s impact make this an important investment in West African youth.

Werner Solórzano

Camp Nigeria

We are excited to share that the United Youth Camp (UYC) 2025 was wonderful and successful at Agaja Beach—our cherished camp home for over a decade!

Agaja Beach is a breathtaking location, standing on a narrow strip of land embraced on one side by the mighty Atlantic Ocean and on the other by the calm Badagry creeks. The scenery alone makes camp unforgettable. The sunsets there paint the sky in golden hues, while the mornings bring a soft warmth that inspires joy, fellowship and gratitude to God. It truly is a friendly, lovely place for building lasting memories.

This year’s theme, “Building on the Foundation” (1 Corinthians 3:11), was already alive in the hearts of the 44 campers and 20 staff. From the first day, everyone threw themselves wholeheartedly into the experience, eager to grow spiritually, make new friendships and enjoy the blessings of God’s creation together.

The array of activities kept camp vibrant and full of life—from Christian living classes and team challenges to sports, swimming, campfires, volleyball, archery, chess, dancing and craft class. The balance of fun, hard work and learning made the experience deeply rewarding. Campers did not just have fun—they were encouraged to grow in character, discipline and the joy of godly living.

We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to the home office for their love, prayers and consistent support. Your encouragement continues to enrich the lives of the youth here in Nigeria, helping us nurture future leaders who will stand firmly on the foundation of Jesus Christ.

UYC Nigeria Team

Camp Zambia

In Zambia, the week of August 17, two United Youth Camps sessions were held concurrently, 250 miles apart in Verino and Mufulira. Camp can easily be described as joyful and fun working under the theme, “Building on the Foundation” (1 Corinthians 3:11). This theme is based on the seven elements of “The Zone.”

In Mufulira there were 79 campers aged 13–20 years, with 19 serving on staff. In Verino there were 48 campers and 28 staff. The week was filled with godly life lessons, such as Family Life and Moral Conduct.

Highlights of Verino camp

Jacob Chipempele reports: “Daily Christian living programs were delivered by pastors Filius Jere and Luke Banda. Sabbath was Youth Day, where youths led hymns and gave the sermonette.

“The other programs given by staff members were as follows: arts and crafts, business class, gardening, medication adherence, being rooted in class, dental talk, fish farming, public speaking, baking and music.”

Highlights of the Mufulira camp

Rodrick Epomba reports: “Moral Conduct class equipped youth with ethical principles that guide a person’s behavior and actions. This encompasses how we interact with others and make decisions based on what is considered right and wrong—adhering to good behavior, fairness, honesty and virtue—constantly doing what is right and striving to be the best version of oneself.

“Family Life classes reminded the youths how to communicate, show respect and give empathy, and the importance of support and love within the family unit.

“Outing day is always the most talked about, as it seems to be a special and fun day with new and special activities different from the usual camp activities. It was made up of swimming, volleyball, soccer and a boat cruise. Camp is always competitive with groups and individuals trying to do their level best by memorizing memory verses and other important lessons.”

UYC Zambia Team

Camp British Isles

From Aug. 4-10, 2025 camp was, for a second year, held at a picturesque venue in West Sussex, with views of the South Downs. Attendees joined us from Europe and the United States. Support from parents, grandparents and other volunteers all contributed to a wonderful environment and successful camp for our 47 campers (aged 4-18).

We were blessed with beautiful weather again this year. As we arrived on the first day, the rain subsided and a rainbow appeared, ending in our grounds. The days were dry and mainly sunny and the nights were well lit by a magnificent moon, particularly enjoyed at our Friday night hymn sing-a-long by the campfire and by those sleeping under canvas.

Activities at camp made use of the onsite field and sports center and included team building, rounders, volleyball, football and ultimate frisbee. A helpful and popular new class this year was self-defense. There was also onsite bubble football in giant zorbs, Picasso-style self-portraits and music classes with ukuleles and boomwhacker sound tubes. In addition, optional activities such as morning runs, craft activities and a Sabbath walk were offered. For our off-site activities, we were able to go to nearby Horsham Park for a picnic lunch after a swim at the local pool. We also went to Tilgate Park for a day of swinging through the trees at Go Ape. In the evenings and during free time, the onsite mini golf and games room was well used. We also enjoyed campfires, an evening quiz, talent show and karaoke evening.

Each day at camp, we gathered for “Thought of the Day,” which this year focused on building a strong foundation of faith and delving deeper into each of the Ten Commandments. Whole-camp interactive sessions were followed up with age-appropriate focused discussions. On the Sabbath, we were pleased to welcome some additional guests. There were two youth-focused split sermons and we were treated to two pieces of special music from our young people: a keyboard solo and piece from the newly-formed camp ukulele band.

A big thank you to all of the campers who came this year, each of whom is special and valued and adds to camp, just by being there. We also thank all the adults, who helped by running or supporting onsite activities, driving to offsite activities, cleaning, vacuuming, talking with and encouraging one another. Our youth leaders are very important to camp; these are young adults closer in age to our campers than most of the volunteers, who support the campers in participating in their activities. It’s a role that we hope many of our older campers may like to return to camp to fulfill as they graduate from being campers themselves. Even after full days at camp, our three youth leaders could be found volunteering for extra duties and their kindness and enthusiasm were appreciated by all. The kitchen team deserve a special mention for their tireless work in bringing our large group delicious and healthy meals each day, always with a wonderful salad bar and a smile on their faces! As always, ultimately, all thanks to God for His blessing and protection over this year’s camp.

UYC British Isles Team