How did Camp Fire light my spark?

In 2016, I embarked on a journey to Camp Fire Minnesota as a camp counsellor, a pivotal moment in my life when I found myself uncertain about my future. Hailing from England, I had always held a fascination for the United States, but I had no inkling of how Camp Fire would leave an indelible mark on me.

Arriving at Camp Fire Minnesota, I was a reserved and somewhat unsure individual, grappling with questions about my educational and career path. It was here that I encountered the vibrant spirit of Camp Fire, a place teeming with boundless energy, enthusiasm, and a profound commitment to nature, inclusivity, and nurturing an environment that fostered future leaders. From the very beginning, these ideals resonated deeply with me, and I soon realised that I had been yearning for them without even knowing it.

My experience at Camp Fire transformed me into someone I had never been in England. I became “Flash,” not a Clinical Exercise Physiologist or academic, but a person brimming with energy and zeal for nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. I was passionate about promoting inclusivity and ensuring that everyone who came to Camp Fire had an unforgettable summer.

The spark ignited within me at Camp Fire was the drive to develop leaders. At the time, I lacked confidence and was often reticent, harbouring underlying anxieties about taking on leadership roles. However, the profound joy I found in guiding and empowering youth, combined with the unwavering support I received from the Director, Toots, kindled my personal growth.

Embracing the philosophy of Camp Fire, I developed a fervour for aiding and uplifting others. I honed my communication skills, gained the ability to speak in front of groups, and naturally emerged as a leader whenever the situation demanded. When I returned to England, I carried with me the skills and confidence I had cultivated during that transformative summer.

Armed with my newfound sense of purpose, I continued my educational journey, pursuing a PhD and immersing myself in the field of exercise oncology. Here, I extended my support to those diagnosed with cancer, championing healthy behavioural changes like physical activity.

Camp Fire didn’t just light a spark in my life; it ignited a blazing passion for personal growth, leadership, and making a positive impact on others, which has guided me ever since.