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I was immediately filled with excitement as my name was the first on the list of successful applicants for Rainbow Camp 2. However, as I scanned down the list I was overwhelmed by a rush of mixed emotions. Only one of my friends had made it and I had never had a proper or intimate conversation with any of the other applicants. I quickly relaxed as I filled my mind with positive expectations and reminded myself that I applied for this camp for this very reason: to be open to change, to learn more about my peers and what makes them so unique, and to experience a different adventure out of my comfort zone that could maybe even be life-changing.
When I arrived at school on the morning of our departure I was definitely convinced that it would take this group of people longer to connect and bond. From the time everyone was waiting for instructions up to the seating plan on the bus there were noticeable groups and cliques. Amazingly everyone started to interact during the slow drive to Bains Kloof. I am not sure whether it was the willingness and eagerness for friendship in the atmosphere or if it was our first memorable moment made by our fellow campers, but whatever the cause, it was the beginning of new and profound friendships.
Rainbow Camp helps you understand stereotypes, prejudice and racism by literally showing you what it does and how it makes people feel. It also opens your mind and makes you realise how much control society actually has over us and how, instead of being leaders, we end up following without even knowing it. The activities and daily chores gave us a sense of responsibility and belonging and our opinions were always heard and valued. It was extraordinary how those simple discussions or just listening to the various kinds of music that was on someone else’s CD could change your beliefs and judgements of people and make you realise how much you actually have in common. I developed a new profound respect for my fellow campers and even more so for those who overcame their fears by putting their trust in the hands of others. It is a classic example of what you can achieve with the support of those who care about you. I was also privileged to get the opportunity to talk about my religion, Islam. It was a fantastic way to teach people about Islam outside the classroom environment. I was stunned by the response and the number of questions asked, which I keenly tried to answer to the best of my ability.
Rainbow Camp does not necessarily change you but it provides you with life lessons and experiences that impact you in such a way that you want to make changes in your life for the better. I also learnt that in order to change others I need to start by changing myself. Sometimes ignorance gets in our way but like any other shadow it only needs light shone on it in order for it to disappear. I would like to take this opportunity to salute my Rainbow Camp 2 friends for their strong desire to “keep their flames burning”. A huge thanks goes to Ms. Baron and all staff for making these camps possible and for all their support, and for making us feel so comfortable in the safe environment they created.
Wameeqah Adams
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Promoting Acceptance 
