Tammi and Kyle Botes recently raised money to attend the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in Yamaguchi, Japan.
The Germiston City News told the Botes siblings’ story last year (GCN, November 21, 2014).
After successfully raising sufficient funds through the generousity of the public, as well as personal funding, Tammi (17) and Kyle (14) were among 148 children from SA to travel to Yamaguchi, Japan, as part of the 23rd World Scout Jamboree, held from July 23 to August 9.
The GCN caught up with the siblings after their once in a lifetime opportunity.
The event offered those who attended a chance to learn about different cultures and people.
It saw about 32 672 children and 8 000 International Service Team (IST) members from 156 countries and territories attend.
Before departure, the children were split into four troops, of about 40 people including group leaders.
The troops were named after South African indigenous trees; Tamboti, Acacia, Marula and Baobab.
Tammi was placed in the Marula troop, and Kyle the Acacia troop.
After a brief farewell to their parents the two set out from OR Tambo International Airport.
“It felt like the start of a huge adventure, Kyle and I couldn’t wait to see what awaited us in Japan,” Tammi said.
After a brief layover in Hong Kong, the children travelled to Tokyo where they had the opportunity to visit Disneyland Tokyo, a Japanese shrine and Tokyo Tower.
“I had a sashimi for dinner when we arrived, which I found surprisingly good, and bought myself a traditional Japanese Kimono amongst other things,” Tammi said.
“Hong Kong was safe and clean with a huge variety of vending machines,” said Kyle.
After several other experiences, including a trip on the Bullet Train, the troops arrived in Yamaguchi.
“Upon arrival, we were allocated our camp sites, and Jamboree IDs,” explained Tammi.
The camp sites were broken into different mountain district names.
Tammi’s troop fell into the Kuju district and Kyle’s the Fuji district.
“We were given the day to rest, set-up camp and explore,” Tammi added.
Troops began their modules two days later.
The modules included: peace, science, water activities, faith and belief, global development village (GDV), community and culture.
The attending scouts worked toward getting stamps to achieve the coveted International Friendship Award.
During these modules Tammi visited Hikari City, Monkey Zoo and Hiroshima.
“I was so moved by the memorial site,” she said.
Kyle visited a Japanese school, a local beach, an aquarium, as well as, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial.
The siblings loved the programme and didn’t only come home with amazing memories and exquisite treasures, but friends they will have for a lifetime.
“After my experience I would love the opportunity to move to Japan one day,” Tammi said.
It has been has been a life changing event and the siblings thank their parents, family, the Scouts and Girl Guides, as well as the local companies and community members who helped make their trip to Japan a reality.
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