In July last year former nucleargarduate Abi Monkhouse travelled to Japan as a volunteer at the 23rd World Scout Jamboree. Read more about Abi’s experience below.
‘In July 2015 I had the opportunity to volunteer as a member of the International Service Team for the 23rd World Scout Jamboree. Every four years scouts from around the world come together to share experiences in different locations, and this year Japan was the host country. Over thirty thousand scouts, age 14-17, from 150 countries attended the two week camp. I was part of the six thousand strong team of adult volunteers working to run the site and all associated operations, to ensure that the young scouts enjoyed what is literally a one-in-a-lifetime experience.
My main role at the Jamboree was as an Emergency Medical Dispatch Operator, working in the temporary hospital that had been constructed on site. I was responsible for answering emergency calls, managing the dispatch of first response teams, coordinating the use of the Japanese military ambulances, and liaising with off-site hospitals. This role required me to use the skills I have developed through the nucleargraduates programme, such as communication, teamwork and adaptability, and apply those skills to a completely new environment. Working with other volunteers from a vast range of countries has also broadened my appreciation for the differences between countries and developed my respect for their cultures.
The World Scout Jamboree was an incredible experience bursting with personal development potential, as well as an opportunity to work with like-minded individuals, deliver a successful event for thousands of scouts, and discover a fascinating country brimming with culture and history.’
