Youth from around the world recently gathered in and around Lloydminster for the city’s first-ever international youth exchange.
The opportunity, hosted by the Lloydminster Lions Club, brought together 26 teens from multiple countries, including France, Germany, Ukraine and others. In addition to the United States, there were local students from Saskatchewan and Alberta.
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“I took my daughter to a district camp in South Dakota last year. That was her second camp and my first,” said Lloydminster Lion Darryl Oster, noting the organization approached after the trip and asked if he would like to help coordinate this exchange.
“We registered the camp internationally so we could get more participation. We had 16 people register and 12 come.”
From Paris to the Prairies
Alberic Lenormand, a student from Paris, France, came to Canada intending to improve his English.
“It allowed me to discover different cultures. At the camp, I think my favourite time (was) when we played soccer. That’s the most fun,” he said, noting he stayed with Oster and his family.
Timur Treskunov, who’s originally from Ukraine and now lives in Germany, said his sister inspired him to attend the camp.
“She went last year to America. I thought it would be interesting to visit another country” he said, noting he quickly noticed the mix of cultures.
“The most surprising thing is when all of these different cultures come together. Everyone has different habits.”
Treskunov also said learning about the Indigenous People of Canada stood out as something he will take home.
“In Germany, we didn’t know how they were treated or what cultural differences they have,” he said.
Camp activities included volunteering and trips to Cold Lake and Elk Island National Park.
“We wanted them not just to see Canada, but give back to the community,” explained Oster, noting the goal was to make connections.
“Our main goal was to give the kids the opportunity to come and experience different cultures. Maybe learn a few things and make some friends.”
Lenormand said he would recommend the camp.
“It was very fun. A good time.”
Treskunov agreed.
“It gives you a better understanding of the world,” he said. “It’s better than sitting at home.”
Despite the camp taking nearly a year to plan, Oster said it was all worth it.
“They were all friends by the end,” he said. “You couldn’t ask for a nicer group of 26 kids.”
The Lloydminster Lions Club’s next event is its Medieval Feast on Sept. 27 at the Kitscoty Community Hall. More information can be found on the club’s Facebook page.
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