This article was originally written in English and is translated into other languages using machine translation.
What Is the Head of Contingent Meeting?
The Head of Contingent Meeting serves as a critical platform for coordination and collaboration. It brings together the heads of national delegations—known as contingents—responsible for organizing their country’s participation in the Jamboree. These meetings provide a space to share updates, exchange ideas, and build the partnerships needed to deliver a successful event.
The first meeting, held online, aimed to introduce leaders to key aspects of the Jamboree and lay the groundwork for the years ahead.
What We Discussed
The agenda for the meeting included several important topics:
Introduction to Poland and Gdańsk: Participants were given a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and vibrant energy of the Jamboree’s host city, Gdańsk.
Learning More About the Jamboree: Leaders gained insights into the event’s vision, goals, and framework, including how it aims to inspire Scouts and leaders from all over the world.
Preparing Your Contingent: Practical guidance was shared on how to begin preparations, including timelines, resources, and opportunities for collaboration.
The session also featured an interactive Q&A segment, where participants could ask questions and clarify details about their roles, responsibilities, and the event’s logistics.
Building a Shared Vision
The meeting was more than just an exchange of information; it was a celebration of the global Scouting spirit. Karol Gzyl, Executive Director of the Jamboree, welcomed the participants on behalf of the Jamboree Management Team with inspiring words:
“It fills me with joy that today we are, together, opening the next chapter of preparations for the 26th World Scout Jamboree. This is a moment to celebrate our shared journey and commitment as Scouts and partners in creating something truly extraordinary.”
Karol emphasised that while there are still many details to be finalised, transparency and collaboration will remain at the heart of the planning process:
“We may not have all the answers yet, but we are committed to sharing what we know as soon as we know it. Together, we will create a safe, transformative, and educational experience for everyone involved.”
Why This Meeting Matters
For many participants, this was the first step in a long journey to Poland in 2027. It offered a chance to connect with fellow leaders, align on shared goals, and begin planning how they will support their Scouts in experiencing the Jamboree to the fullest.
The meeting also highlighted the collective effort required to organise an event of this scale. The Jamboree Planning Team worked tirelessly to prepare the session, supported by volunteers from the Polish Scouting ZHP360 broadcast team, who ensured a seamless experience for all attendees.
Their hard work is a testament to the spirit of Scouting—volunteers coming together to make something extraordinary happen.
Looking Ahead
This meeting is just the beginning. Over the next few years, the Heads of Contingent will continue to collaborate through regular online updates, training sessions, and three in-person HoC meetings. These gatherings will provide opportunities to dive deeper into key aspects of the event and ensure that everyone is well-prepared for the summer of 2027.
We’re incredibly grateful to all the leaders who took part in this first meeting. Your enthusiasm and dedication set the tone for the incredible work ahead. We can’t wait to see you again at our next session in 2025!
Acknowledgements
This meeting was made possible thanks to the support of the National Freedom Institute under the Scout Movement Development Governmental Programme for 2018-2030, led by the Minister for Civil Society.
The global road to the Jamboree has officially begun. Let’s make it a journey to remember!
