Ignite the Spirit: The Campfire Relay – ICC 2026 Torchbearer Program

The concept of the “Campfire” holds a cherished place in the world of camp education, symbolizing friendship, sharing, and unity. It is a cultural totem embodying the shared values of camp educators globally, perfectly aligning with the spirit of the 13th International Camping Congress (ICC).

In 2026, the global camp community will convene in China for the 13th International Camping Congress (ICC 2026). To nationally promote the Congress’s core message and ignite a consensus on camp values, the Congress Organizing Committee (ICC2026-OC), supported by the International Camping Fellowship (ICF) and CCEA (Children’s Camp Education Alliance), has launched the “Campfire Relay – ICC 2026 Torchbearer Program.”

Mission and Role of the Torchbearers

The mission of the Torchbearer Program is simple yet powerful: “delivering the spirit of camp and igniting consensus on values.” This project seeks to gather an influential, dedicated, and highly motivated group of camp education promoters across the world to become official “Torchbearers.”

These individuals will play a vital role during the preparation and promotion period of ICC 2026 by undertaking key tasks such as:

  • Conference promotion: Spreading the official voice and message of the Congress.
  • Community organization and regional linkage: Building networks and activating the industry ecosystem locally.
  • Conference support: Assisting with on-the-ground execution and resource provision.

Who Should Apply?

The ICC2026-OC is looking for passionate leaders who:

  • Are highly enthusiastic and deeply concerned about the success of ICC 2026.
  • Deeply identify with the core values of camp education and are committed to the standardized development of China’s camp industry and of camps around the world.
  • Possess solid practical experience, professional expertise, and resource reserves in their industry and region.
  • Exhibit excellent cross-scenario communication, systematic innovative thinking, and efficient teamwork skills.

Exclusive Benefits and Commitment

Torchbearer Privileges

Torchbearers are granted significant official recognition and exclusive access:

  1. Official Identity and Authorization: Obtain the honorary status of “ICC2026 Torchbearer,” officially authorized by ICF and ICC2026-OC. This includes the right to use the authorized ICC2026 logo series in external publicity, along with receiving official plaques and certificates.
  2. Full Media Exposure: Enjoy nearly 16 months of full media coverage across the ICC2026 matrix and gain priority participation in official content co-creation.
  3. Exclusive Conference Benefits:
    • Invitation to the “Torchbearer Exclusive Session.”
    • Official thanks and on-site demonstration opportunities (e.g., the Torchbearer Wall of Honor and Social Zone).
    • Participation in the symbolic Torch Lighting Ceremony during the ICC opening ceremony, where Torchbearers will jointly light the “Inheritance Torch.”
  4. Resource Empowerment: Access the ICF global camp network and ecological resources. Torchbearers gain priority for securing regional partner rights and co-organizing offline events.

Torchbearer Responsibilities

To fulfill their mission, Torchbearers are expected to actively engage in three key areas:

  1. Publicity and Promotion:
    • Synchronously promote official conference information via their own media channels to ensure consistency and authority.
    • Actively assist in the planning, organization, and execution of the conference’s official offline promotional activities.
    • Expand influence by promoting the conference in relevant industry activities and communication scenarios within their region.
  2. Regional Event Support: Participate in the planning and implementation of official ICC2026 offline promotions, offering essential local resource support such as venue matching, recruitment assistance, and volunteer services.
  3. Local “Spark Plan” Initiative: Promote the local “Spark Plan” by recruiting more camp colleagues and organizations in their region to participate or support the Congress, gradually building a torchbearer linkage network.

How to Join the Relay

Joining the ranks of the Torchbearers is a four-step process:

  1. Online Application: Fill out the online application form, providing basic information and a personal/organizational profile. Or email ICC 2026 OC member Ruth Feng for more information.
  2. Preliminary Screening: The “Campfire Relay” special working group conducts an initial review.
  3. Cooperation Discussion: Both parties communicate to discuss cooperation models and promotion plans.
  4. Final Authorization: Upon passing the review, applicants receive their official Torchbearer identity, authorization certificate, and exclusive material package.

The ICC2026 Organizing Committee invites all dedicated camp professionals to “Join us and ignite 2026!”

“In the world of camp people, every fire comes from a sincere transmission. Let us act as Torchbearers. Together, we light the way to ICC 2026. We look forward to your joining us to witness the highlights of camp education!”

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