Khadija came down on our Girl Scout Service Challenge last summer and felt inspired to pursue her Gold Award to further stock the library she helped build in Talamanca. She created a website for donations and more information.which you can find with a link to here.
1. What made you chose to do an Outward Bound Costa Rica course?
I chose an Outward Bound Costa Rica course because I was looking at Girl Scouts Destinations and I saw a service challenge that was offered by Outward Bound Costa Rica. It instantly caught my eye since I loved doing service work an I thought it’d be great to move out of my community and to help those more in need.
2. What is your favorite memory from your course?
My favorite memory was the first day when I had just met the children in the village and was just getting settled. There was a language barrier since I did not know Spanish and they did not know English, but we connected anyway. The girls with me on the trip and I joined in their game of soccer in the rain. It was amazing and through that it made us feel close to the kids that day.
3. What did you learn on course that is still relevant in your life today?
I learned that not everyone has opportunities to learn and succeed, and that I should appreciate the things I have, including my lifestyle. I try my best not to waste things I have.
4. What made you chose to continue the Bajo Cuen Library project for your GS Award?
When I stayed at the school I observed the kids eager to read and learn even more since they were lacking the means to do so. Through my project, I want to add to the library to give them more materials to work with!
5. Why do you think that service projects such as this one are important?
I believe they are very important as they improve our society and open people’s eyes to things outside their world. It gives more opportunity to those who have so much potential but not the chance to implement them. I also think that it changes people and helps us get used to helping people as we should to one another in this world today.
6. How did your trip with OBCR impact you as a Girl Scout?
It impacted me greatly, I expanded my horizons as a Girl Scout and went beyond my community. It has made me an even prouder Girl Scout.
7. What would you say to other Girl Scouts who are considering coming on a Girl Scout Destination with Outward Bound Costa Rica?
I would say DEFINITELY do it because it it such a great opportunity to help others and actually make an impact on society. It also takes you out in the natural world more and you see the environment more. You’ll meet many amazing people on your trip!
To learn more about our Summer Expeditions and Girl Scout Destinations, head to our website or contact our office. If you are an OBCR alumni and want to let other people know about your experience at Outward Bound Costa Rica, fill our alumni ambassador form.