Reflections from United Youth Camp - Ghana 2025

From December 21–27, 2025, Paul Ogundipe and I had the privilege of volunteering as United Youth Corps members at the United Youth Camp (UYC) Ghana, an experience made possible through the generous sponsorship of Good Works. The camp brought together young people from congregations across Accra for a week intentionally designed around spiritual growth, skill-building, fellowship, and wholesome recreation.

A Serene Setting for a Firm Foundation

We arrived in Ghana on Sunday, December 21, alongside our pastor, Mr. Paul Moody, and were warmly received and transported to the campsite at Valley View University (VVU), Accra. Nestled in a serene environment, surrounded by tall trees, open green spaces, and rolling landscapes, the campus offered a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustle of city life. Campers were housed in tents under tall trees that offered shade and a cool atmosphere, creating a simple but refreshing camp experience.

​A Purposeful Start

Camp officially began that evening with an orientation that set a focused tone for the week. The community consisted of 22 campers (aged 13–18), two unofficial"mini-campers" (aged 6 and 10), and 22 volunteer staff members. Campers were divided into Team Red and Team Blue, with each group guided by a counselor and co-counselor. 

Each day began early at 5:30 a.m. with calisthenics. Though physically demanding at first, these sessions quickly became a favorite, setting a disciplined and energetic tone for the day's activities, which included Team Challenges, Archery, Crafts, Swimming, Volleyball, and Chess. These exercises reinforced the idea that physical, mental, and spiritual growth requires consistency and commitment. 

Building on the Foundation

The camp theme, “Building on the Foundation,” was woven intentionally through every activity. Campers were taught that God has a divine blueprint for life, revealed through His Word; that Christ is the cornerstone; and that believers are living stones, called to align their lives with Him. These lessons were reinforced not only in Christian Living classes, but also through practical activities and interactions.

Woven Together: Lessons from the Loom

I was privileged to facilitate the craft sessions, teaching campers how to create pot holders using metal looms, looping pins, and fabric loops. This process served as a powerful physical metaphor for spiritual unity. We discussed how a single fabric loop is fragile and easily broken on its own; however, when woven purposefully together with others on the loom, it becomes part of a fabric that is resilient, unbreakable, and highly useful.

As the campers followed the patterns and assisted one another, they saw a living example of the biblical principle that two are better than one (Ecclesiastes 4:9). They learned that life, much like their craft, reaches its full potential only when we are interconnected and built according to God’s design.

Many campers went beyond pot holders to create purses and pouches, displaying creativity, focus, and growing confidence.

Growth and Perseverance

Paul and Mr. Moody facilitated swimming classes, while Paul also taught the campers chess. For many, these were entirely new experiences. Because access to pools is scarce in many of their communities, the campers seized this opportunity with remarkable determination. Beginners took bold steps to overcome their fear of water, while more advanced swimmers encouraged their peers, fostering a strong spirit of teamwork. 

This same spirit of perseverance extended to the chess classes. Initially, the strategic movements of the pieces were challenging, but as the campers grasped the rules, their engagement and confidence grew, the game became both enjoyable and stimulating. Participation increased, and the sessions evolved into moments of learning, interaction, and fun. Several campers later shared that they had gained valuable skills from both activities, which reinforced their eagerness to learn, resilience, and ability to grow when given the right opportunities. 

Spiritual Rest, Fellowship and Celebrations

The Sabbath was a meaningful highlight of the week. Sabbath services provided time for rest and reflection on the spiritual lessons taught throughout the week. The campers rendered a special music, a moment that was both moving and uplifting, showcasing their willingness to serve and minister to one another.

In the afternoon, a Bible quiz tested campers on lessons from the Christian Living classes and general Bible knowledge. It was heartening to see how much they had learned and how confidently they engaged with Scripture showcasing the biblical and spiritual lessons from the week. 

Sealing the Bond: The Banquet and Beyond.

Camp concluded on Saturday evening with a banquet night, where campers gave short speeches about their experience at camp and lessons they will take home with them. Campers were also recognised for their participation and growth. The evening ended with joyful dancing, laughter, and celebration, an expression of unity, culture, and shared joy. Experiencing Ghanaian hospitality, food, and vibrant expression added rich cultural depth to an amazing and spiritually uplifting week.

Personal Reflections

Beyond the activities, UYC Ghana offered profound lessons for me. One key takeaway was the impact of intentional investment in young people. When youths are placed in a structured, supportive environment and given opportunities to learn, try, and grow, transformation happens. Another lasting lesson was the importance of stepping beyond comfort zones. Whether learning new skills or serving in a new cultural context, growth often begins with courage and openness.

This experience strengthened my commitment to service and expanded my worldview. Fellowshipping with my Ghanaian and American family: campers and staff, reinforced the reality of a Godly family united by shared faith and values, a unity that transcends borders. Bonding with the campers and getting to know some of them on a personal level also deepened my appreciation for opportunity and the role mentorship plays in shaping lives.

Paul and I are deeply grateful to Good Works for making this experience possible. United Youth Camp Ghana 2025 was a powerful reminder that when we invest in young people, spiritually, emotionally, and practically, we partner with God in building lives firmly anchored on Christ. It is my hope that this reflection will inspire others to volunteer, serve, and support the meaningful work of the United Youth Camp.