Social Summer Inclusion Camp ‘a sense of fulfillment and happiness

THIS year’s Integration of All Children in Ireland (IACI) Social Inclusion Summer Camp closed with a talent show and prize giving in the Jobstown Community Centre last Friday, July 12.

It also marked 20 years since Yemi Ojo started the popular camp, and she told The Echo this week, “Not in a million years did I think it would go on for 20 years!”

The two-week camp has been running since 2004 and was established by Yemi Ojo with her husband Elder Tius Ojo, who live in Jobstown and raised their three children in the area.

It aims to provide an affordable summer break for children in the area who may not get to travel for holidays, and also to encourage social integration in the diverse community.

Commenting on reaching the 20-year milestone, Ms Ojo, who is affectionately known as Aunty Yemi, said: “Not in a million years did I think it would go on for 20 years, no way!

Saidat Kamiyo, Anasteeia Chinisa Mgbams, Funmi Susan Aigboviose, Khairat Folashade Kazeem, Edo Iyore Tracy, Rebecca Adekunle and Suliyat Akande

“I didn’t even think it would go on for two years, but the passion and the love of children kept us going every year with the support of my family and dedicated volunteers.

“We actually started the first summer camp at the Tallaght Intercultural Action Drop-In Centre in St Maelruain’s, Tallaght Village, for five years or so, before moving to the Jobstown Community Centre Tallaght who have been a great host ever since.

“All the staff and centre manager Robbie have been very supportive.”

This support continued last week with the centre playing host to the camp’s talent show and awards ceremony, which is held every year to mark the conclusion of the summer camp.

The awards were presented by Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Baby Pereppadan, and all of the children received goodie bags donated by Tallaght West Credit Union.

“It gives positive closure for the children, going home with awards and certificates of achievement,” said Aunty Yemi.

“It’s good for their mental health as well.

“The talent show gives them the opportunity to showcase their talents without any pressure in a safe, happy and loving environment where all the children are cherished.

“They are happy doing it.”

Reflecting on the success of the 20th successive year of the camp – which ran in an online format during the pandemic – Aunty Yemi shared her highlights from this year.

“The highlight was seeing the first and the last day of the IACI 20th Annual Social Inclusion Summer Camp coming to fruition,” she said, “and how happy the children were, and how appreciative the parents and guardians were.

“For the children who can’t go on summer holidays, they look forward to the camp every year.

“It makes me feel humble and fulfilled – one of the parents called me a legend!

“Another highlight was seeing the children who were once participants now volunteering, including Irene Nwakajiur, our team leader volunteer, and Shannon Carney and Eva White.

“It’s a sense of fulfilment and happiness.

“I’m passionate about organising the summer camp year after year, and I love all the children, period!”

Aunty Yemi added that she wanted to thank the mayor, Tallaght West Credit Union, the council, Daire from Citywise, Jobstown Community Centre, her family, the volunteers, and the participants and their parents for their support.

“I’m grateful and humbled,” she said.

“Special thanks and appreciation to The Echo for 20 years of coverage.”

Plans are already being put in place for next year’s IACI Social Inclusion Summer Camp to the delight of the children.