From 1–4 July 2026, nearly 40 high school girls representing around 15 cities across Macedonia came together in Bitola for GLOW Camp 2026 (Girls Leading Our World), a transformative leadership experience organized by YMCA Macedonia in partnership with Peace Corps Volunteers, camp staff alumni, and local volunteers.

Designed to inspire the next generation of young women leaders, GLOW Camp combined experiential learning, outdoor adventure, and creativity in an environment where every participant was encouraged to discover her strengths, support others, and grow in confidence.

Throughout the four-day program, campers participated in engaging workshops centered on the YMCA Pillars of Personal Growth, Leadership, Environmentalism, Civic Responsibility, and Career Development. The interactive courses challenged participants to think critically, collaborate with others, and develop practical leadership skills they can continue using in their schools and communities.

Beyond the classroom, campers enjoyed a wide variety of recreational activities, including creative workshops, bowling, Olympic-style competitions, and exciting water games that encouraged teamwork and healthy competition. One of the highlights of the camp was the outdoor experience in Pelister National Park, where participants camped in tents, conquered the Adrenaline Park ropes course, and enjoyed a scenic hike while exploring the forest during a nature scavenger hunt.

The impact of the camp was perhaps best captured by the campers themselves:

“Everyone’s amazingggg energy! Every activity was organized well, people were welcoming and inviting, and how we tried so many things together. I love that I got to do things that I once dreamed of, and at that with lovely girls my age!! I love the warmth and the comfort of being in a space that is surrounded by women, so I definitely appreciated that.”

Another participant reflected on the unique variety of experiences: “The days were filled with unique activities where not a single day was the same as the previous. I loved the Counselors and their positive energy and encouragement.”

For many campers, the friendships formed during GLOW Camp became one of the most meaningful parts of the experience: “I loved the community we created inside the camp, full of support and friendly spirit. It felt like we were in a separate world full of love and kindness away from the sometimes cruel world outside of this camp. The food was also awesome!”

The camp’s influence extended well beyond the four days, as parents reported seeing positive changes in their daughters after returning home.

One parent shared: “I noticed she became more open-minded, and I was surprised by how energetic she was. I also feel like she gained more courage compared to how she used to be. She was very excited and said she would definitely like to participate next year as well.”

Other parents described noticeable improvements including:

“Better communication skills.”

“She is more confident.”

“In better spirits, more self-confident, and full of impressions.”

Looking ahead, many of this year’s campers will have the opportunity to continue their leadership journey by applying to become Counselors-in-Training (CiTs) for next summer’s camp. The CiT Program is part of YMCA Macedonia’s year-round Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Program, which equips young people with leadership, communication, mentoring, and service skills throughout the school year before preparing them to serve as future camp counselors.

Through this leadership pathway, YMCA Macedonia continues to invest in young people not only as campers, but as future mentors and community leaders who will inspire the next generation.