From Camp Sababa alumni participant to volunteer companion

By Milla Wolman

Despite the devastating tragedy of the massacre on Chanukah at Bondi, a glimmer of light persisted amid this new darkness. The laughter of children and young adults with disabilities echoed through Sydney’s Jewish community as they came together earlier in December for four days of fun and fulfilment at Camp Sababa 2025.

From the magic that made each camper’s eyes sparkle to the ruach that grounded them in energy and belonging, Camp Sababa created an environment defined by joy, inclusion and community.

Nothing has given me greater pleasure or honour than becoming the first person to move from Camp Sababa alumni participant to volunteer companion. Stepping into a role that once supported me has brought endless joy and connection. Being able to become the person I once relied on was deeply meaningful.

Camp Sababa is a four-day overnight camp held each December for campers living with disabilities, from the age of seven through to young adults. Across the four days, campers flourish with the support of dedicated young adult volunteers.

The experience offers campers the chance to form meaningful friendships, while volunteers, paired with campers based on individual needs, gain a deep sense of compassion and understanding. I had the honour of working with junior campers alongside many other companions, most of whom were Jewish Year 12 graduates.

The camp’s high-energy programme created an atmosphere of enthusiasm, connection and inclusion. Campers threw themselves into activities where noise, colour and movement collided. They laughed as they bounced through Inflatable World, cheered during ruach and talent shows, and drummed to their own beat with Junkyard Beats.

Snakes and bunnies made surprise appearances, adding moments of wonder and fun. Arts and crafts, science and sensory sessions, and splashing in the pool brought visible pride to both campers and companions. Watching smiles spread across the campers’ faces filled volunteers with warmth and joy.

Living with cerebral palsy, I have grown up surrounded by people who showed me constant care and support. At Camp Sababa, I was able to offer that same care and compassion to someone who felt like a younger version of myself.

One moment that stood out was seeing my camper’s confidence grow as they became more comfortable joining in activities. Like every volunteer, I witnessed moments of pure laughter and happiness that captured the excitement of the camp. “Watching the campers grow in confidence over just four days is incredible and so rewarding,” one volunteer said. “The joy they bring into every activity is unforgettable.”

Being part of that process reinforced the importance of spaces like Camp Sababa, which place inclusion, understanding and genuine connection at their core. The camp not only supports campers but also provides parents with much-needed respite from the daily demands of caring for a person with disability. By fostering confidence, belonging and friendship, Camp Sababa creates lasting change that extends well beyond the four days of camp.

In a time of grief and uncertainty within Sydney’s Jewish community, Camp Sababa offered a powerful reminder of what community can look like at its best. Through its supportive environment, campers gained confidence and connection, while families and volunteers saw the lasting impact firsthand.

As the camp ended, its ruach carried on, highlighting the vital role initiatives like Camp Sababa play in strengthening the wider community.