The WE@FUTURE Jamboree, hosted by the Scout Association of Hong Kong, marked a historic milestone as the first-ever Scout jamboree held in Mainland China. Centered around the theme "WE@FUTURE," the event emphasized unity, collaboration, and team spirit, bringing together thousands of young Scouts from across the region and beyond. Held from December 23 to 27, 2024, at the picturesque Qiao Dopa Coast in Zhuhai, the jamboree showcased the beauty of Chinese culture and the spirit of Scouting.
A Gathering of Cultures and Communities
The jamboree welcomed approximately 4,400 participants from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Macau, and international delegations, including Qatar, South Korea, Thailand, and Nepal. This diverse gathering aimed to foster environmental awareness, teamwork, and respect for multiculturalism. Activities such as lion dance, tea and fruit making, and Sanzao paper-cutting offered participants a hands-on experience of China’s intangible cultural heritage, deepening their appreciation for its rich traditions.
The event also highlighted inclusivity by welcoming Extension Scouts, Ethnic Minority Scouts, and Scouts from transitional housing families, many of whom experienced a jamboree for the first time. This commitment to diversity reinforced Scouting’s core values of equality and mutual respect, fostering integration within the Greater Bay Area.
Overcoming Challenges and Building Bridges
Organizing the jamboree came with its share of challenges, particularly in introducing Scouting and camping culture to local Mainland communities. Through persistent communication and collaboration, trust was built, and strong support from local authorities ensured smooth logistics, including transportation, food, and safety. This successful partnership sets a precedent for future large-scale Scouting events in Mainland China.
The journey to Zhuhai itself was an adventure, with thousands of Scouts traveling via the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge or turbojet. Led by Chief Commissioner Dr. Wilson Lai and Deputy Chief Commissioner Mr. Terence Lo, the jamboree marked a historic first for Scout Association of Hong Kong, venturing beyond its traditional venues.
Innovative Activities and Sustainable Goals
The jamboree’s activities were designed around five key themes: Messengers of Peace, Skills for Life, Health and Well-being, Earth Tribe, and Discovering Zhuhai, all aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Highlights included the "Earth Tribes" activity, which taught waste sorting and solar power generation, and a breathtaking Scout-themed drone performance that lit up the night sky.
Offsite Excursions and Cultural Immersion
Offsite excursions were a highlight of the jamboree, offering participants a chance to explore Zhuhai’s rich cultural heritage and modern development. Scouts visited iconic locations such as the historic Huitong Ancient Village , the scenic Shijing Mountain Trail , Nazhou Village, the Zhuhai Urban Planning Museum, the Hengqin Innovation Hub, and the Zhuhai Space Center. These visits provided a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences, allowing participants to immerse themselves in China’s intangible cultural heritage while gaining insights into Zhuhai’s rapid modernization.
Back at the campsite, the "Scout Bazaar" was a vibrant hub of activity. Featuring food stalls and games from both Zhuhai and Hong Kong, the bazaar also showcased traditional handicraft stalls, where participants could engage with and learn about Chinese cultural arts. On the second night of the jamboree, the bazaar came alive with a spectacular lineup of performances, including lion dance, Szechuan face-changing show, shadow puppetry, dance performances, live music by popular bands, and singing acts. These performances brought the campsite to life, creating an unforgettable atmosphere and celebrating the diversity of Chinese culture. The campfire night featured vibrant performances, from Qatari national songs to energetic K-pop dances by Korean Scouts.
This combination of offsite exploration and on-site cultural activities not only deepened participants’ understanding of Chinese traditions but also highlighted the dynamic interplay between heritage and innovation in the Greater Bay Area.
A Historic Achievement and Lasting Legacy
The success of the WE@FUTURE Jamboree was a testament to the collaborative efforts of numerous organizations and individuals. The event was proudly included in the 75th Anniversary celebrations of the People’s Republic of China, with support from the Chinese Government, the Guangdong Overseas Friendship Association, the Youth Affairs Division of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in Hong Kong, the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government, and the Zhuhai Overseas Friendship Association. Special thanks were also extended to the Jiuzhou Port and Bridge Port inspection units, as well as sponsors from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Special thanks are given to our distinguished guests from the Asia-Pacific Regional Scout, including but not limited to, Mr. Jose Rizal PANGILINAN, Regional Director of Asia-Pacific Regional Support Centre; Mr. Simon Hang Bock RHEE, 1st Vice Chairman of Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee; Dr. Somboon BUNYASIRI, 2nd Vice Chairman of Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee; guests from the National Scout Organization of Thailand; guests from the Scout Association of Macau and the Heads of Contingent : Mr. Hamad Yousuf A AL-AMRI of Qatar Scouts and Guides Association, Mr. JI-MIN Park of Korea Scout Association, Mr. Rajaram GHIMIRE of the Nepal Scouts, Mr. Bawonpatn YANVUDHI of the National Scout Organization of Thailand and Ms. CHAN Lai Lei of the Scout Association of Macau.
As the jamboree concluded, heartfelt gratitude was expressed to Scout leaders, participants, and parents for their dedication and enthusiasm. Their collective efforts ensured a seamless and enriching experience, fostering unity, collaboration, and lifelong friendships.
The WE@FUTURE Jamboree not only celebrated the spirit of Scouting but also laid the foundation for future generations to embrace leadership, diversity, and a shared vision for a better world. Through this historic event, the values of Scouting continue to inspire young people to overcome challenges, build bridges, and create a brighter future together.
Article contributed by the Scout Association of Hong Kong