Hello again from the town of Jiu Long, near Qingyuan!

Today was a very busy day! Groups A and B went to an amazing cave where the students got to practise their orienteering skills, in an exciting, yet safe, environment. Students got to read maps, use a legend and scale effectively, and find hidden checkpoints along the way in the cave, all while building invaluable teamwork skills! The cave was so dark that, without a flashlight, you could literally not see your hand in front of your face. The students loved it! 

Also today, Groups A and B went to a factory and learned the process of making “tofu skin”. Each student was able to have a hand in each part of the process of turning soybeans into tofu skin! They found it very interesting….and tasty! They even got to try some dried tofu skin and soymilk…mmmm!!!

Additionally, Groups A and B got to explore the Peng family fortress/castle, which was unexpectedly large, especially considering they were in a very rural, sparsely populated area. It was interesting seeing how the wealthier people of the region lived a few hundred years ago.

Groups C and D had an day full of exercise! Biking and rock climbing were on the list, and they did not disappoint!

Biking through the countryside of this beautiful area is breathtaking to say the least. Everyone was able to try biking, regardless of ability, and the groups had some great instructors!

Rock climbing on the karst (limestone) rock formations was really great, as well! Knowing they were using safe equipment, with experienced climbers and instructors guiding them, was reassuring to our students who were new to climbing, and they all took on the challenge! It was a great test of physical and mental strength for our students, and one they definitely were thrilled about!

This evening, we all had our preparation time for the community service tomorrow, where we are going to a garlic farm to help make the fields better for growing the crop. More info later on that. Groups A and B go camping tomorrow night, while Groups C and D camp on Thursday night.

What the teachers and students have been very impressed with is the Dragonfly Staff and the many years of experience, in technical skills and in youth-related interpersonal skills, that each of them bring to their job. The Staff are also really great at keeping the students interested and engaged, as even on “down-time” they’re playing interesting educational games or having time for reflection based on our discussions and activities. The activities we’re doing are valuable and so unique compared what almost all of these students have ever done before, but the reflection time and journal writing may prove to be the most valuable as we see these students grow as individuals, right before our eyes, throughout the week.

Good night!