Empower Young Leaders with the Take Action Camp Mini This Winter!

Take Action Camp Mini 2025: A Winter Experience for Young Leaders

The Take Action Camp Mini, organized by the certified NPO Free The Children Japan, is set to take place from December 26-28, 2025, at the Takao no Mori Wakuwaku Village in Hachioji, Tokyo. This winter camp is targeted at elementary, middle, and high school students, providing them with a unique opportunity to confront global challenges and devise action-oriented solutions.

Since its inception in 2000, the camp has welcomed over 1,000 children, shaping future leaders who are passionate about resolving societal issues. The three-day program encourages participants to identify and understand pressing social problems while nurturing the mindset and skills necessary to take meaningful action. In a world where children's voices are increasingly necessary, this camp inspires youths to think, “What can I do?” and empowers them to stand up and make a difference.

Overview of the Take Action Camp

The Take Action Camp is a leadership education program developed in North America for students in elementary, middle, and high school. With Free The Children Japan at the helm since 2000, the camp has become a launchpad for numerous changemakers dedicated to tackling societal challenges. Participants will learn about various global topics including environmental issues, poverty, war and peace, gender equality, discrimination, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through team-building exercises and workshops, they can acquire essential skills for problem-solving. This immersive experience promises to be a significant first step towards fostering personal and global change.

The Winter version features a compact two-night, three-day schedule, making it accessible for eager participants, especially those experiencing an overnight program for the first time.

Who Should Attend?

- Students seeking to gain valuable knowledge and experiences for their futures.
- Individuals interested in participating in overnight events but may feel intimidated by outdoor activities.
- Those unsure of what they can do but motivated to engage in activities that positively affect society.
- Young people wanting to try their hand at volunteer work.
- Students who struggle with public speaking but wish to grow in this area.

Program Details

Participants will explore local and global social issues through lectures, workshops, and group discussions. Guided by the extensive experience of Free The Children in developing leaders, the camp emphasizes collaborative learning rather than passive absorption of information. The program prioritizes nurturing ideas and enhancing leadership skills.

Peer interaction among students from diverse backgrounds across Japan will encourage discussions within small groups of 6-8 participants, spanning varying age levels. University student facilitators, trained to inspire action, will create a warm environment where everyone feels safe to express their thoughts, thus highlighting each participant's unique abilities.

Take Action!

Founded by 12-year-old Craig Kielburger in Canada, Free The Children has fostered a movement where children worldwide resonate with his commitment to combat poverty and environmental challenges. The Take Action Camp serves as a platform to propel participants into influential roles in advocating for change. By repeatedly contemplating their potential contributions, young leaders will discover their unique pathways to action.

Testimonials

From Students:

- “Sharing time and discussions with friends of various ages and backgrounds made me realize I could take steps toward action for the world!” (6th grader)
- “This camp constantly reminds me to think about what I can do; this is both easy and complex.” (2nd year middle school student)
- “I discovered my passions at the camp, and I’m notably more proactive about initiating action!” (1st year high school student)

From Parents:

- “My child was initially apprehensive, but they returned excited, discussing the camp and wanting to attend again next year. I’m grateful for this experience.”
- “Interacting with peers from various regions has been invaluable in developing communication and analytical skills for active participation.”

Event Details

- Date: December 26-28, 2025 (2 nights, 3 days)
- Location: Takao no Mori Wakuwaku Village, Hachioji, Tokyo
- Cost: 30,500 yen

(Early discount available until October 31, 2025: 28,000 yen)

- Eligibility: 5th grade to 3rd year high school students
- Capacity: 24 participants (minimum enrollment of 17)
- Deadline: December 3, 2025, by 19:00

Through discussions and reflections in a safe atmosphere cultivated by university student facilitators, young leaders will confront social issues while discovering new aspects of themselves. Interested applicants can explore scholarship opportunities for financial assistance.
Apply here: Take Action Camp