Frequently Asked Questions

Programme Information

What are the programme dates?

CONNECT is a virtual camp for Ismaili youth from around the world. The duration of the programme is five (5) days. The programme will start with an exciting orientation and community building day on Saturday December 19th and then will continue from 26th to 30th December 2020. CONNECT is being organised collaboratively by Global Encounters and Aga Khan Youth and Sports Boards.

What times will the programme take place?

In order to ensure that Ismaili youth from around the world have the opportunity to participate in CONNECT, we will be running a staggered schedule.  Participants will be placed in one of the following five hour blocks:

NOTE: Times above take into account the time change taking place on 1 November 2020.

What does a sample day look like?

Most days will follow the schedule below. There may be minor changes to this format as we finalise the daily schedules. You will be placed in one of the options below. Both groups will come together as a global community during the GATHER community building session.

Option 1:

Option 2:

Do I need access to the Internet?

Yes. We will be using Zoom and other online platforms and tools for CONNECT. The platforms that we are using will be accessible to the vast majority of participants. If you have questions about Internet requirements, please contact the Global Encounters Jurisdiction Coordinator in your area or email [email protected].

How many participants will be admitted to CONNECT?

We anticipate admitting around 650 eligible youth to participate in CONNECT December.

What happens if I need to miss a day of CONNECT?

One of the requirements to be eligible for CONNECT is to be able to attend all five (5) days of the programme. Activities build on each other from one day to the next and everyone’s presence is required to build our camp community.  During the registration process, applicants will be asked to agree to commit to attendance for all 5 days.

Registration Information

How do I register for CONNECT?

Registration forms can be accessed by visiting globalencountersprogramme.org. Registration forms will be available from 16 October until 13 November 2020. The registration form includes sections for demographic information, extracurricular activities, and short answer questions. Registration forms will be accepted on a rolling basis.  Efforts will be made to ensure diversity.  

Please note that your parent or guardian will also need to complete a form.  They will be sent an email when you enter their information into your application. Registration forms submitted without parent/guardian forms are not considered complete and will not be reviewed.

When I register for CONNECT, will I be automatically admitted into the programme?

When you complete and submit the registration form, the placement team will determine eligibility and placement. We request that you spend adequate time on your registration form.  Ensure that the information you have provided is correct and that you have answered the short answer questions thoughtfully. The CONNECT Team will share a formal letter with you around the middle of November if you are admitted into the programme. Feel free to use the “Contact Us” feature in the registration portal if you have any questions or email [email protected].We encourage you to submit your form as soon as possible. 

Is there a parent/guardian form connected to the registration process?

Yes. The registration form will ask you to submit information for one (1) parent/guardian. Please verify that the information inputted is correct. Once you save the information on that page, your parent/guardian will receive an email from [email protected] with access to the Parent/Guardian Form.

What is the age requirement to participate in CONNECT?

Ismaili youth between the ages of 14 and 17 years old on or before 1 December 2020 are eligible to register for CONNECT.

I have attended Global Encounters and other Ismaili camps in my country.  Am I eligible to participate in CONNECT?

Yes, you can register for CONNECT as long as you meet the age requirements.

I attended CONNECT in July. Am I eligible to participate?

Yes, you can register for CONNECT as long as you meet the age requirements. The content for CONNECT in December will be different from CONNECT in July.

What is the language requirement to participate in CONNECT?

The language of instruction for CONNECT will be English.

What is the registration deadline for CONNECT?

Registration forms will be accepted until 7 November 2020 at 11:59 PM Pacific time (Vancouver time). Placements for CONNECT will be made based on programme eligibility, application submission date, and ensuring diversity in each camp cohort.

What is the cost/programme fee to participate in CONNECT?

There is no cost to participate in CONNECT: December 2020. We anticipate you will need to be able to access basic school supplies (stationary) and minimal supplies for your workshop choice. 

Is financial assistance available to access the Internet and for stationary?

Once you complete your registration form and are admitted into the programme, support may be eligible for those who need it.

Content and Curriculum Information

What will I experience in CONNECT?

CONNECT is an experience for Ismaili Muslim youth to come together in a virtual space. As we come together, we will explore important themes and issues relevant to what is happening in the world right now as well as for our generation with members of the Jamat from all across the world. There will be opportunities to discuss, engage and socialize with youth of different cultures and backgrounds.

An important element of the programme is to CONNECT AND LEARN. Participants will attend interactive workshops led by core faculty. CONNECT in December will focus on the theme of Climate. Over the course of the six days, participants will explore issues related to climate change globally and how we can be agents of change.

In addition to opportunities to learn about our global Jamat and our responsibility to others, there will be virtual field trips, opportunities to virtually visit and learn about the families of other participants, interactions with and exposure to AKDN institutions, fun and exciting activities to celebrate the things that bring us all together.

During the programme, participants will have a choice to develop new skills or enhance existing skills by participating in a workshop. Those who are accepted into the program will get a chance to choose specific workshop offerings. Examples of workshops include: digital art, theater, film, photography, spoken word, stand-up comedy. journalism, public speaking and digital advocacy.

What are the objectives of CONNECT? How will CONNECT embrace aspects of a traditional, in-person programme?

The camp in its virtual setting will mirror many of the things you would experience in an in-person camp: cabins where you can meet and interact with others, facilitators who will mentor and guide you through the CONNECT experience as well as opportunities to learn, create, collaborate, celebrate and share.

CONNECT in December will focus on the theme of Climate. Over the course of the five days, participants will explore issues related to climate change globally and how we can be agents of change.

Interactions will happen within small groups as well as the entire camp coming together to reflect and share stories.

There will be many opportunities to meet new people, make friendships, learn about each other just as there are with in-person camps. The difference will be that everyone will be in their own homes while simultaneously participating in the camp.

We understand that you may have additional questions. Please feel free to use the “Contact Us” feature within the registration portal or email [email protected].