Kasper (pictured 3rd from right in photo) has been attending SAAS since he was 7 years old. Now 18, he graduates in November. He tells us about going to his first camp, and how it has made him more confident about travelling overseas.
“I am Kasper Gwee. I am 18 this year. I am the youngest child at home; I have 3 older brothers. Being the youngest child is fun.
“I went to camp in December last year. It was my first time at camp. I wanted to go to camp because I thought it would be fun.
“The camp was organised by St. John. I am a member of St. John – it is my CCA at school since 2019. I enjoy helping people when they get injured.
“I had to overcome some challenges. Just a week before departure, three of my family members tested positive. I followed instructions to mask up, practise social distancing, and eat a healthy diet.
“The evening before departure, my teachers from SAAS and instructors from St. John visited my home. They gave me the final briefing and assured my parents that I was in good hands. So my mom signed the consent form.
“So from 15 to 18 December 2023, I went to the 38th Sinmal Camp. It took place in Kawasan, Johor, Malaysia. The activities began as soon as we arrived. After the opening ceremony, we listened to a health talk.
“After this, we had our first aid case study. I enjoyed it because I could put my first aid knowledge to the test.
“My most memorable moment of the camp happened on the second day. I visited Che Ann Khor in Yong Peng. This was a very big temple, where I got to see how the local Chinese community depicted heaven and hell. No, I wasn’t scared.
“I like most of the food at camp, especially dinner on the second day. We had hot pot, and I got to cook ingredients like vegetables and meat myself. I learnt to cook many things, like instant noodles, during cooking lessons in school.
“After dinner, we visited residents in the village. We shared first aid knowledge with them. For example, we demonstrated to them how to safely handle sharp utensils.
“On the last day, we attended the closing ceremony. We took so many pictures. I was well liked by officers and campmates. I was not shy; I could mix with people and made many new friends.
“I also learnt many things at the camp, like first aid and foot drills. I want to work hard to become an officer with St. John, and find full-time work with them.
“I have become more independent and responsible. I texted my mom every day; and called her one day. I missed her – well, just ok lah. I missed my dog Wendy too. She is 9 years old.
“One day, I want to travel to Russia and visit Moscow. I want to experience winter; I’m not afraid of the cold. My mom says it’s very far, so we may go to Harbin in China instead. I’ll let you know when I’ve saved enough money.”
