Lead volunteers and coordinators of the BAPS Children’s Forum, UK, gathered at Swansea in Wales for a leadership retreat from Friday 1 March to Sunday 3 March 2013. The trip was organised to enhance teamwork within the group of volunteers and to build upon the success of the ‘Kidz Ultimate Challenge’ held throughout 2012.
The 30 delegates spanned a spectrum of ages from as young as 15 years through to 54-year olds, with their experiences from various mandirs and centres contributing to an enlightening weekend.
The group engaged in a number of team-building and recreational activities, including mountain climbing and abseiling, and there was also an opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences, successes, challenges and difficulties.
Daily spiritual practices were also strengthened through collective prayers and by performing rituals together, including arti and thal. Meal times were also utilised in spiritual reflection among the team members.
One relatively new volunteer shared: “This trip helped me to get to know a lot more about many of the other volunteers from around the country and I’ve seen how our senior members are real role models for all of us.”
Overall, the trip proved very productive and memorable, and set a platform for another fulfilling year of children’s activities in 2013.