United Youth Camp South Africa 2024

My name is Avery Ryan, from Fort Payne, Alabama, and I have taught Physical Education for four years in public school systems. I’ve been fortunate to attend over 30 teen and preteen United Youth Camps over the years as both a camper and staff member. My camp experience began as a camper at Camp Woodmen in 2006, and it has since led me to serve at camps on three continents in the roles of lifeguard, activity lead, assistant counselor, and head counselor. In 2016, I also had the amazing opportunity, through the Good Works Project, to serve at the UYC camp in Brazil as the activity lead for sports and leisure activities.

Recently, I had the opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey to South Africa with Lisa Johnson, a fellow volunteer from the United States. We planned to arrive a week early for additional traveling to Cape Town for sightseeing, as well as to meet with the camp director, Vivien Botha, and the assistant directors, Nigel and Charlene Schuller. We arrived in Johannesburg after the 17-hour flight late on December 13th and spent the Sabbath with the Kempton Park congregation. We were able to meet some campers and staff who would also be attending camp. On Sunday morning, Lisa and I took a quick flight to Cape Town and spent the next five days exploring the area alongside the Schullers and Mr. Botha. Early Friday morning, a convoy with more than a dozen people headed to camp from Cape Town, leaving from the Schuller home for their 14+ hour drive. Shortly after their departure, Lisa and I were dropped off at the airport, where we flew back to Johannesburg, spent one more Sabbath in Kempton Park, and left for camp Sunday morning on a full 20-person shuttle bus.

Lisa and I had the incredible opportunity to serve at the South Africa camp as Head Counselors, alongside a dozen others on staff who volunteered time, money, and resources to make the camp happen. This was an experience that left a lasting impact. The camp was filled with a wide range of activities, each designed to foster spiritual growth, camaraderie, and fun over 10 days at the beautiful Moolmanshoek campsite. One of the most beautiful aspects of the camp was the friendships that blossomed during our time together. We were united by our shared faith and experiences, and it was amazing to see how quickly strong bonds were formed. Both campers and staff came together in a spirit of love and mutual respect, creating a supportive and welcoming environment we like to call “The Zone.”

Throughout the week, we participated in daily Christian living classes, sports, and had plenty of fellowship time. Christian living was deeply enriching and focused on standing strong and taking up the armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6:10-13. The sports, horse riding, abseiling, riflery, and overnight hike provided a healthy and fun way to bond with fellow campers, while teaching discipline and safety, as well as encouraging teamwork and physical fitness. Fellowship time allowed for meaningful shower conversations and spiritual discussions to continue during and after meals, at the campfire, during time, and well after lights out time while laying in bed.

As I look back on my time at the camp in South Africa, I am reminded of the powerful ways in which faith, friendship, and fellowship can shape our lives. The connections I made, the lessons I learned, and the memories I created will stay with me long after I leave. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful, and I look forward to carrying the lessons from this camp into my daily life. Thank you to everyone who volunteers, supports, and donates to ensure these camps can continue to teach God’s way of life in a safe and supportive environment. Your contributions make a lasting impact!