My name is Yalda, and I am a part of the 2010 camp planning committee. I, along with my fellow camp team members, have been working very hard in planning and organizing this summer’s Camp Ayandeh, which is set to be held at Notre Dame de Namur University in Belmont, CA, July 6- 12, 2010.  This year, we are celebrating our fifth year anniversary of Camp Ayandeh with a strong curriculum and some exciting activities, as we hope to make this year one of the most memorable years of camp for our campers. We have already received a record number of applicants, and spaces are filling up quickly.

Before joining IAAB staff and preparing for this year’s Camp Ayandeh, I was a camper for two years and a volunteer staff member at Camp Ayandeh 2009. IAAB’s Camp Ayandeh has truly been an experience to remember.  Both as a camper and a staff member, I have learned so much about myself and my Iranian heritage. Camp Ayandeh provided an environment where I was able to be myself without any judgment from the people around me.  I had never felt more comfortable in my surroundings than I did within my years working with IAAB and being a camper.  It has taught me how to become a leader both in the Iranian community and beyond.

Through Camp Ayandeh, I learned, I laughed, I made long lasting friendships, and I began to better understand myself as an individual, and when I returned back to my home community, I wanted to share what I learned with everyone around me.

I am looking forward to sharing a great summer with my IAAB family! If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us at campayandeh@iranianalliances.org. See you this summer!