This summer, ACAY was invited by the Ministry of Juvenile Justice to take part in the Trophy Sports Adventure in Pelvoux, in the Alpes, with the theme “Summit School, a shared adventure”. Rainier, a former beneficiary of ACAY Philippines, traveled to France to share his compelling life story with the French youth. This story is part of ACAY’s December 2023 newsletter.
This summer, ACAY was invited by the Ministry of Juvenile Justice to take part in the Trophy Sports Adventure in Pelvoux, in the Alpes. This trophy, organized each year with some sixty youths in centers from all over France, had as its theme “Summit School, a shared adventure”. Several collective activities were organized, transmitting the values of sport, solidarity, mutual aid, and surpassing oneself.
Engaging in this unique experience allowed us to interface with industry professionals and connect with a diverse group of youths. ACAY was a partner in the hike, which involved over 10 hours of walking and more than 1,000 meters of ascent. Each youth who completed the challenge enabled a family in the Philippines to receive a food basket sponsored by the Ministry of Juvenile Justice.
Rainier, a former beneficiary of ACAY Philippines, traveled to France to share his compelling life story with the French youth. Addressing the audience on the first day of the event, he recounted his experiences, leaving a profound impact on the attendees.
I was lucky enough to take part in the Trophy Sports Adventure at the end of June. When I arrived, the organizers gave me a warm welcome. Right from the start, I felt at ease sharing my life story, hoping to inspire youth to go beyond their limits. When I finished telling my story, the youths were silent for a few seconds, and then some of them shook my hand, congratulating me on my courage and on what I was able to achieve despite everything. We also accompanied the youth and their educators on a 9-hour hike with a 1,200-meter ascent. It was hard and painful, as I rarely walk, let alone in the mountains. Most of the youths weren’t used to walking so much either. That’s why we were at the same level of difficulty, but together we succeeded.
During the hike, we talked to a lot of people: youth and professionals. We shared about our lives, what we love, our hobbies, the difficulties we face, and how to find solutions. For the first time in my life, I saw snow and immediately jumped in. Everyone was laughing! I was very happy to live that moment. I also did the hydrospeed activity, which involves floating down a river. I was delighted to have done it because it was a unique experience. On the last day of the Trophy Sports Adventure, the youth received their prizes. I also met a world ski champion, Simon Billy, who gave me a gift with an autograph. I was very touched.
The closing ceremony, attended by the ACAY team, was a convivial and emotional culmination. A commendable sum of €1,200 was presented, a testament to the unwavering dedication of each youth involved. Heartfelt thanks extend to the Ministry of Juvenile Justice and the participating youth for their invaluable commitment and contribution.
##
