This summer, campers aged 11 to 17 journeyed to Collège Champittet from across the globe for the annual Summer Leadership Camp. Held from late June through July, the two 14-day sessions were meticulously designed to blend Swiss adventure with profound personal growth and the forging of new, lasting friendships. The program's core mission was to cultivate leadership through immersive, hands-on learning experiences. Campers engaged in specialized workshops led by world-renowned institutions, including the prestigious IMD Business School. Coached by IMD experts, participants tackled dynamic challenges like the Helium Stick exercise, a deceptively simple task that demanded exceptional teamwork, communication, and patience to successfully lower the stick. These sessions went beyond physical activities, delving into personal development with workshops on grounding, presence, and understanding the power of one's inner critical and supportive voices. Participants also explored the dynamics of a 'dream team,' learning to identify and leverage their individual strengths in a collaborative setting. This foundational work in self-awareness and group dynamics was a critical first step in their leadership journey.
The adventure continued with a unique perspective on leadership from EHL Hospitality Business School, the world’s top-ranked institution in its field. Here, campers discovered that leadership principles are embedded in every aspect of hospitality, from collaborative cooking to meticulous table setting. These activities taught invaluable lessons in adaptation, conflict resolution, and the subtle art of service-oriented leadership. Beyond the classroom, the stunning Swiss landscape served as the ultimate playground. Campers experienced the thrill of sailing and wake surfing on the pristine waters of Lake Geneva, the adrenaline rush of canyoning in the Gruyère region, and the awe-inspiring beauty of exploring an underground lake and the panoramic vistas from Glacier 3000. The camp spirit was further fueled by classic activities like campfire sing-alongs and a fiercely competitive football match pitting campers against counsellors. Creativity was also a key component, with campers applying their newfound skills to collaborative projects such as producing a short film from concept to premiere and orchestrating special events like a Gala Night, a Talent Show, and a Multicultural Fair. These final projects solidified their learning, boosted confidence, and created a treasure trove of shared, unforgettable memories.
