The Scout Association of Bermuda is sending nine of its scouts to Poland to enjoy a global jamboree in the summer of 2027.

Bermuda’s contingent will attend the 26th World Scout Jamboree, joining scouts from the Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey to form Unit 3 — one of 40 UK units attending the gathering.

An extensive fundraising campaign has been launched by the charity under the leadership of 19th Scout Troop leader Catherine Kempe.

The first planned charity event to support the goal of $50,000 is the Scout Golf Tournament, scheduled for April 11 at the Belmont Hills Golf Club in Warwick.

Stephen Barton, a leader of the 19th Bermuda Cub Scouts, will lead the Bermuda contingent.

Mr Barton has dedicated 24 years to scouting in Bermuda and brings extensive experience and leadership to the role.

“Selecting the nine scouts was a challenging process, with 16 applications submitted.

“Deputy commissioner Jose DeSousa, who chaired the selection committee, noted that every applicant was deserving of the opportunity. However, the UK allocation places strict limits on the number of scouts each country may send.

“For a small island like Bermuda, we are very fortunate to have these nine spots. This is the third time Bermuda has been able to fill a full patrol for the world jamboree, this shows the strength of scouting in Bermuda.”

“Bravely” is the jamboree theme, which aims to inspire young people to act courageously for the future of themselves, others, humanity and the planet.

Bermuda has participated in several World Scout Jamborees in the past, with recent host countries including Japan, the United States and South Korea.

Mr Barton added: “These global gatherings give young people the chance to build lifelong friendships, develop confidence, experience new cultures and foods, and broaden their understanding of world issues and events.

“Many of the current Pack and Troop adult leaders now helping Bermuda scouting sections of Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers have attended world jamborees during their teen years.

“This past weekend, the Bermuda scouts and leaders held their first combined online Zoom meet-and-greet with their fellow Unit 3 leaders and scouts, allowing all participants to meet their future camp mates virtually.

“Coordinated weekend camp outs are planned across all four unit islands, with scheduled virtual check-ins so scouts can share their experiences and prepare together.”

Geoffrey Rothwell, Bermuda scout commissioner, said that the Scout Association of Bermuda is one of the few youth organisations on the island run entirely by volunteers.

“Every donation, no matter how small, will help make it possible to give our young people an unforgettable experience that will shape their confidence, skills and outlook for years to come,” he said.

For details on sponsoring a hole in the fundraising tournament or signing up a team, e-mail bdascoutsfundraising@gmail.com.

To contact the scouts, visit www.scouts.bm or visit the Facebook page @BermudaScoutAssociation