By Honorary Reporter George Barker from UK
Photos = Yassine Gandouz 

The 25th World Scout Jamboree from Aug. 1-12 in Buan-gun County, Jeollabuk-do Province, is an opportunity for youths from all over the world to share their experiences and cultures. In an email interview on Aug. 4, I spoke to Yassine Gandouz, a Tunisian scout attending the event.

Please introduce yourself.
I am 19 and a member of the International Service Team representing my country's scouts at the 25th World Scout Jamboree in Korea.

How long have you been a scout?
Thirteen years.

What kind of activities do scouts do?
We aim to create a better world through diverse and fulfilling experiences. We learn life skills and have fun while gaining knowledge outside of a formal classroom.

What are the most interesting places you've visited as a scout?
I attended a Jamboree event last year in Denmark and I'm happy to experience another in Korea this year.

What are you most excited about at this year's Jamboree?
Simply participating in the World Scout Jamboree in Korea is exciting enough. I look forward to building global friendships and participating in all of the event's programs.

What activities have you done so far?
We learned about the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. I enjoyed my visit to the village of Haengchi in Wonnam-myeon Township of Eumseong-gun County, Chungcheongbuk-do Province, where former U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was born, and won a U.N. scarf. I participated in Culture Day on Aug. 6 as units made traditional food and demonstrated traditional activities from their respective countries. It was a great learning experience.

What was your first impression of Korea?
I had a positive first impression. The people are so welcoming. I don't eat pork but could find a wide variety of halal and vegetarian meals and seafood.

Do you feel a strong camaraderie among scouts worldwide?
Yes, I do. Building international friendships is what I love most about scouting.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.