|
|
|
|
|
|
Port of Call |
LAST UPDATE March 12, 2008
|
|
| site design imagesparkle.com |
| January 31, 2008 |
Port Victoria, Seychelles – Youth Cultural Exchange |
|
| |
 |
| Granite peaks on Mahe Island formed a dramatic backdrop for the aquamarine sea |
Located over 1500 kilometers off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles archipelago is composed of over 100 small granite and coral islands, hosting a plethora of indigenous flora and fauna. The Seychelles were uninhabited until colonized by European nations in the 18th century, and today are a one of a kind blend of cultures and peoples, composed primarily of immigrants from France, Africa, India and China. In 1976, the Seychelles finally gained independence and became a republic of the Commonwealth, now relying economically on tourism, tuna fishing, and vanilla and coconut processing. Natural conservation is a key aspect of the Seychelles, with the government and partner organisations collaborating to protect the natural heritage of the islands. |
site design imagesparkle.com |
 |
| Jumping rope at the Beau Vallon Community Centre |
The Peace Boat made port on Mahe Island in the capital city of Victoria, the only major port in the Seychelles archipelago. Victoria is the smallest national capital in the world, and its buildings clearly display a mix of the islands' colonial history and its multicultural heritage. During the call, a group from the Peace Boat joined the Seychelles Scout Association (SSA) for a day of cultural exchange activity. The SSA is composed of 16 troops and over 400 scouts, primarily based on Mahe Island but with small branches on a few other islands. The association focuses on the principles of service and education to build leadership and responsibility among youth. This exchange programme provided a chance for Peace Boat participants and local members of the SSA to come together and share common activities to move beyond the barriers of language and cultural difference. |
| |
 |
Peace Boat participants taught scouts how to write their name in Japanese script, overcoming language barriers to share their cultures |
At the Beau Vallon Community Centre, scouts and participants performed songs and dances for each other, and then spent the rest of the morning playing volleyball, jumping rope, practicing Japanese calligraphy, trying on Japanese yukata, and sharing little bits of culture with each other. The scouting group prepared a barbeque lunch for Peace Boat participants, and everyone enjoyed the beautiful sunny skies and laidback island atmosphere. Participants especially appreciated the fresh island fruits: papaya, star fruit, coconut, and even fresh sugar cane. By undertaking in such joint activities and sharing friendly meals, participants can identify with each other on a human level, building the friendship links across nations and cultures that are a pre-condition for peace and sustainability. |
| |
 |
| A friendly game of tug of war at the Beau Vallon Beach |
After lunch, the group moved together to a nearby beach, and as it came in to view participants gave cries of delight at the sight of the white sands, azure skies and turquoise seas. After sailing for nearly three weeks, participants were excited to finally have time to swim and play at the beach. Some people joined in a friendly game of tug of war, while others snorkeled in the clear, warm water, and still others took time to just relax, strolling down the beach, or taking naps in the shade. New friendships were solidified through these relaxed activities, and conversations about life in each other's countries. At the end of the day, SSA participants returned together the Peace Boat to join in an onboard event featuring dance and drum performances by several local groups. The SSA waved from shore as the Peace Boat pulled away from port that evening, and participants bound for the African continent reflected upon exchanges and experienced in the island nation. |
| |
|
|
|
