From Camper to Leader: The Legacy of Wild Wee Jasper camp
Stephanie almost didn’t make it on her first Wild Wee Jasper Camp. Her mum signed her up last minute, and with around 100 campers already attending, it’s amazing she even got a spot.
That was back in 2016 when she was in Year 7. Now, in 2024 she is directing the camp for the first time.
Because of your support of SU Australia’s camping ministry, young people like Stephanie are being introduced to Jesus in ministries that make a lasting impact.
“The whole environment was just so exciting and it felt like that’s where I should be at that time,” Stephanie reflects.
Stephanie was initially drawn to the adventurous side of the camp. She especially loved the novelty and challenge of caving.
“I didn’t come from a camping family…it was such a great environment to explore that in.”
But it was the encouragement of the leaders that really strengthened her faith. “You meet all these leaders who are such role models, and it’s such a beautiful environment.
Some years ago a speaker on the camp encouraged campers to begin prayer journaling, and Stephanie hasn’t stopped since.
Stephanie transitioned to the role of a leader in 2022. The move wasn’t all easy. Coinciding with starting university, she had a lot to balance. But, as she reflects: “The Lord always makes a way.”
While a lot has changed, many things have stayed the same, including relationships. A cook on her year 7 camp has come back for this one.
This year’s camp is action-packed: caving, abseiling, orienteering, canoeing, scrambling, and mountain biking are among the choices. Stephanie believes that the adventurous aspect of the camp helps the campers not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually too.
In caving, “You really see people come together to help,” she says.
As Director, she is looking forward to recreating for the kids what she had herself.
“I owe a lot of growth in all aspects of my life to the camp. I just remember always looking forward to the camp and wanting it to come around again.”