By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
WITH Japan hosting the 23rd World Scout Jamboree in July, 14-year-old Orianna Allen from the Pakenham Scout Group has her sights set on attending the event along with more than 30,000 other young, like-minded leaders.
The Jamboree is one of the world’s largest youth events, with Scouts aged between 14 and 17 attending from around the globe.
Orianna, who first joined the movement as a Joey at age six and became a Pakenham Scout Group member in April last year, said it would give her the opportunity to experience new languages and cultures.
“I wanted to go the moment I heard about it,” she said.
“I can’t wait to experience the world, not just Japan.
“I am very proud to have been chosen… I look forward to representing the Cardinia Shire in Japan, and speaking about how wonderful it is to live in Australia.“
Learning Japanese at school, Orianna is well prepared for the language barrier receiving academic excellence awards in the subject.
Pakenham Scout Group Assistant Venture Leader Damian Allen said the event would provide her with a greater awareness of the world than many others her own age.
“The world Scout jamboree provides opportunities to connect with similar minded youth from far reaching locations around the globe, while experiencing everything Japan has to offer.
Long term plans are already underway for Orianna to attend the New Zealand Venture in 2016, and eventually see the Global headquarters of Scouting in Geneva, Switzerland.
“When I turn 18, I will become a Rover like my older brother, and hope to attend World Rover Moot in Ireland 2019, there is just so much exciting stuff happening around the world with Scouts,” she said.
Orianna said she loved how Scouting “changes you”.
“Being a Scout has given me confidence and friendships. It has changed my life for the better,” she said.
Orianna needs to raise close to $7000 to attend the Jamboree.
You can find out more information and donate to her cause by going to her Facebook page Orianna’s Adventures.
