The camp began on 6th November 2024 and finished on 12th November 2024 in South Korea.
The Camp celebrated its 10th anniversary with a record number of participants.
Around 100 athletes from 18 countries attended the camp.
Sarjo Camara, a talented swimmer and power lifter and Mariama Gaye, an aspiring badminton player both represented The Gambia.
Their journey to the prestigious camp came as a result of hard work of Sulayman Colley, the President of the Gambia National Paralympic Committee.
Their journey to South Korea was supported by the BDH Foundation to empower young para-athletes around the world.
The welcoming ceremony attracted 100 participants, including some key figures from the Korean Paralympic Committee.
Sarjo and Mariama were both warm welcome as international camaraderie.
The duo were not just participants as they served as ambassadors of their country, showcasing the spirit and determination of Gambian athletes.
Throughout the camp, Sarjo and Mariama were both engaged in various activities designed to enhance their skills.
Sarjo and Marima also participated in sports academies focused on para badminton, para swimming and para taekwondo.
The duo experienced Korean culture through K-pop activities and toured of famous landmarks.
Mix of sports and culture was vital for young athletes as it helped them grow not only as competitors but also as individuals.
The president of The Gambia National Paralympic Committee, Sulayman Colley, worked tirelessly to ensure The Gambia was represented at the camp.
‘‘Our dedication to promote para sports in The Gambia has opened doors for young athletes like Sarjo and Mariama.
With his support, they have overcome challenges to reach this point, showing determination that can lead to extraordinary opportunities,’’ Colley said.
The camp was launched in 2015 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Korea Paralympic Committee; since then welcomed over 526 young para-athletes from various countries.
This year’s edition was remarkable as it introduced para taekwondo and its curriculum, providing more avenues for young talents to shine.
As Sarjo and Mariama trained alongside peers from around the globe, the duo were part of a large movement advocating for inclusivity in sports.
Their participation was a testament to hard work and support from organisations like GNPC, which seeks resources to uplift para sports in The Gambia.
The youth camp in South Korea wrapped up on 12th November 2024 with friendly games and a farewell ceremony.
‘‘Now the focus will shift towards future events that promise to continue to support athletes like Sarjo and Mariama.”
Sarjo and Mariama’s journey to the youth camp in South Korea was just one step towards achieving their dreams in para sports.
