From July 13 to 19, a group of 10 scouts from the Artsakh branch of Homenetmen in-exile participated in an intercontinental conference organized in Sweden, attended by Homenetmen delegations from 10 countries. The camp took place at Vassar-O Scout Island and marked the second trip for the Artsakh scouts to another country. They returned to Armenia with great impressions, new discoveries, and full days. Sandra Vardanyan, a member of the Central Board of Homenetmen, accompanied the Armenian delegation and supported the young participants in every aspect of the event.
Victoria Mkrtchyan expressed, “There were 19 people in our group: 10 from Artsakh, 9 from Armenia, and one from the Armenian administration. Our days were very meaningful, and during the week-long camp, about 170 participants were guided by one of the most important slogans of scouts: ‘one for all, all for one.’ Discipline and cleanliness were of primary importance at the camp, and each of us remained faithful to those rules. We returned home with vivid impressions, new knowledge, and skills.”
Lilit Baghdasaryan shared, “We had very high expectations, and we can say that all our expectations were justified because the program and the staff were excellent. This was our second trip after Lebanon. Due to the blockade, we could not participate in several programs. We joined the last Homenetmen meeting online in Byurakan.”
“Sweden was a country of discovery for us, with its rich culture and stunning nature,” Lisa Grigoryan remarked. “Even though we were all Armenians, we represented the cultures of different countries. Initially, we had nothing in common and looked at each other with surprise, which was interesting. The program was packed with activities. The camp was organized on the scout island itself, and learning the history of that island made us proud to participate in the program. During our stay, we fully explored the island and enjoyed every part of it. The atmosphere was relaxed, and as citizens of Artsakh, we were always the center of attention. Those days will remain impressive and unforgettable for us.”
Lisa continued, “The most exciting part of the program was receiving name cards (badges) based on our abilities. Scouts competed in cooking, rowing, climbing, mountain climbing, handicrafts, and other skills. Various competitions, games, and activities were organized, and we found the Swedish dishes to be interesting and tasty.”
After the camp concluded, a celebration featuring an evening bonfire was held. “The national dances presented that day were impressive,” Lilit recalled. “Although we were all Armenians, our clothing and outlook on life were different. The dances reflected our diverse backgrounds. It was heartening to see that each young person, born in different European countries, still considers themselves Armenian, speaks Armenian, and takes pride in their heritage. On that day, songs about Artsakh played, and we could see the pain in everyone’s faces. We were reminded that the loss of Artsakh is a universal sorrow. The ritual of the general prayer on the last day was particularly moving.”
The scouts from Artsakh finished the camp and eagerly await the organization of new camps, which will provide further opportunities for them to grow mentally and physically, preparing them to serve their homeland, as Karine Bakhshiyan concluded.
