Online summer camp is great success again, says Auntie Yemi

A TALENT and awards show to mark the end of a three-week-long social inclusion summer camp was held in Citywise Education Centre last month.

The social inclusion summer camp, which has been held annually in Jobstown since 2004, is the brainchild of local woman Yemi Ojo, who moved to Ireland from Nigeria over 20 years ago.

The mother of three decided to set up the camp 17 years ago with her husband, Elder Tius Ojo, in a bid to offer an affordable alternative to mainstream summer camps, and to promote social inclusion in the area.

Last year, Yemi, who is affectionately known as Aunty Yemi by the children who attend the camp, decided to hold the camp entirely online as a result of the pandemic.

This method was a success, and was employed again this year, with Yemi hosting Facebook live activities for the children every weekday during the course of the summer camp, where it was €5 per child per week.

“The children’s and parents’ feedback was very positive and impactful,” Yemi told The Echo.

The camp’s attendees went on a trip to Bray, and they also attended a key highlight at the end of the camp – the glittering talent and awards show.

The show was held in Citywise on August 13, with Mayor Peter Kavanagh and Community Garda Gary Duffy in attendance.

Angel Edobor was crowned Overall Winner of Online Summer Camp 2021, while the first-place winner of the talent show was Faithful Omoregbe.

The tied second-place winners of the talent show were Wisdom Omorogkomgouan, and Chloe and Harvey Omorodion.

The tied third-place winners of the talent show were Alex Brady and Frederick Olaleye.

Precious Adeniyi was awarded Baby of the Camp, while her stylish family retained the title of Swag Family of the Year at this year’s camp.

The Edobors retained the title of Family of the Year, while Dorcas Iyobosa Uwuoroya and family were the Cultural Dress-Up Day winners.

Yemi added: “Thanks to the Mayor, Cllr Peter Kavanagh, for accepting our invitation. Also our Community Garda Gary Duffy for his presence as well.

“Finally, many thanks to the amazing children and their awesome parents

who participated in yet another very successful online summer camp.”