During my first summer as a delegate, I looked up to the staffers because they created an environment where everyone felt comfortable being themselves. They showed me that you could have fun and be authentic while still being an effective leader. They cared about every delegate, encouraged us to step outside our comfort zones and led by example. I remember one delegate in my squad who was not very comfortable speaking English. Instead of rushing conversations or leaving her out, the staffer took the time to listen, be patient and make sure she felt included in activities and discussions. Watching them made me realize that leadership wasn’t about being the loudest person in the room but about supporting others, building people up and creating a space where everyone felt they belonged. And throughout camp, I continued to witness staff members intentionally including delegates who were standing by themselves, encouraging those who were hesitant to participate and celebrating everyone’s efforts, regardless of the outcome. Those experiences inspired me to come back the following year and apply as a staff member. I knew I wanted to create that same experience for future delegates.

Having to go through all that work made me appreciate how much time and effort goes into creating an experience where every delegate feels welcomed, supported and inspired to grow. And that work was worth it.

I got to watch the delegates grow into their confidence within a week. Some delegates became friends during the bus ride to camp, while others found their closest friends halfway through the week. At first, I noticed many were quiet or hesitant to participate in activities like the dance battle, morning energizers and group chants, because they didn’t know anyone. As the days went on, I watched those same delegates become more confident. They volunteered to lead group chants, participate in disaster skits and take on leadership roles during Search and Rescue. They cheered each other on during CPR practice, team-building games and squad competitions. Seeing that transformation reminded me so much of my own experience as a delegate. I knew that new friendships that would last long after camp were built within that week.

Another highlight I didn’t expect was working alongside such an incredible staff team, made up primarily of other young adults and teenagers like me. Everyone brought different strengths, but we all shared the same goal of making camp the best experience possible for the delegates. Whether we were preparing the Search and Rescue simulation by setting up stations across camp, solving last-minute schedule changes or adjusting activities because of time, everyone was willing to help. It reminded me that leadership is about teamwork and supporting one another.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful to have experienced LDC from both perspectives. As a delegate, I discovered my own confidence and passion for leadership. As a staff member, I had the privilege of helping others discover theirs. Returning to camp reminded me just how much one  week in the middle of nowhere surrounded by people you don’t know  can change someone’s life, just as it changed mine.