Amelia

On day three, we started the morning as usual with the workshop sessions.

One of the highlights was the hands-on workshop led by Bastien, ON4BCY, where participants had the chance to build their own Winkeyer. For those unfamiliar, a Winkeyer is an electronic Morse code keyer, a small device that automatically generates perfectly timed dits and dahs when controlled by a computer or paddle.

The workshop was a big success! Participants not only learned how to solder, but they also got to use their newly built Winkeyers with the CW keys they had assembled themselves. It was a rewarding mix of practical skills and immediate application.

After a tasty lunch at the canteen, the youngsters enjoyed some free time. Some headed to the station for a few QSOs, others took a quick nap to recharge, and a few dedicated themselves to studying for the FCC exam scheduled later that day.

Next, it was Manoel, ON6RF’s turn to present. He introduced us to TETRA and digital modes, providing both practical insights and technical knowledge that fascinated the group.

Finally, the time came for the FCC exam session. Despite some visible tension, it went really well: most participants passed their amateur radio license on the first try, a few needed a couple of attempts, and some even managed to achieve the Extra class

Happy with the results, we all went to dinner together, sharing stories and comparing our accomplishments from the day. Afterward, some of the youngsters decided to do a POTA activation, putting their skills into practice by activating the local park.

It was a day full of learning, hands-on experience, and fun, leaving everyone inspired and eager for the next adventure.

The second day of YOTA Summer Camp began with breakfast in the cafeteria, giving everyone the energy needed for another busy and exciting schedule ahead. Right after, the team leaders gathered for a short meeting to review the plan for the day.

In the morning, participants dove straight into their first group workshops, where each team could continue with their assigned activity whether it was rocket building, CW paddle soldering, ARDF, or station operating.

During the cw key workshop the participants had the chance to build their own personal paddle, designed by Nejc S56NE. The project was 3D printed by Fred ON4PFD, made from 5 pieces assembled together using advanced methods like heat-set inserts. The key features magnetic springs and hidden wires

The participants learned the basic components of a paddle and tips and tricks on how to assemble it and at the end they got the chance to test it on the computer.

After a well-deserved break, we all enjoyed lunch together. The atmosphere was lively, as everyone couldn’t wait to share stories about their workshops and what they had already learned.

In the early afternoon, we gathered for a presentation by on of the participants Kristers YL3JA. He told us about his DXpedition in Somalia as 6O3T and all the misadventures they went through, definitely not an easy DX!

After some free time, the evening program featured another highlight: a presentation by Marija, YU3AWA, who talked about her experiences in ARDF and gave valuable insights into the world of amateur radio sports.

As the day slowly came to an end, participants had time to relax, operate the camp’s station, and even make their first QSOs with other hams around the world.

With another successful day behind us, everyone returned to their rooms full of new knowledge, stories, and motivation. Tomorrow promises even more discoveries, teamwork, and fun so stay tuned for what’s next!

The very first full day of YOTA Summer Camp started bright and early! At 7 a.m., the bells of the local church rang through the village, officially marking the beginning of our adventure.

After breakfast, we gathered for a short meeting with the team leaders to review the day’s schedule. But before diving into the workshops, it was time to discover who we’d be spending the week with: we were split into 6 groups, named after french delicacies: baguette, croissant, macaron, crème brûlé, pain au chocolat and chocolatine. The morning kicked off with lively ice-breaking games: a fun way to get to know each other and begin building new friendships.

Next on the program was a short but intresting lecture on ARDF, delivered by Marija (YU3AWA). With that introduction, we were ready to prepare for one of the most anticipated highlights of the week: the ARISS contact.

A group of 20 participants was selected to read questions to astronaut Mark Fincke (KE5AIT) aboard the ISS. Since we had only a short time window for the contact, rehearsals were essential. Thanks to Ana (EI5IXB), the team quickly learned what to do, and their performance during practice was flawless.

While waiting for the connection, Jules and Michel (F1AFW) gave us a talk about the International Space Station, sharing technical insights and fun facts. Then the moment arrived: silence fell across the room, broken only by the static of an empty frequency. Then, after a few calls, a voice came through: “Welcome to the ISS!” Hearing Mark’s greeting filled our hearts with joy. It was a truly emotional moment none of us will ever forget.

For lunch, we enjoyed a taste of French tradition: we had a picnic-styled meal with baguettes with delicious toppings. After some time outdoors, participants split into groups, each diving into a different challenge:

• Team Baguette launched into the Rocket Workshop.
• Team Crème Brûlée built their very own CW paddles.
• Team Croissant worked on Winkeyer kit building.
• Team Chocolatine set off on ARDF activities.
• Team Macarons focused on station operating.
• Team Pain au Chocolat explored the world of radiosondes.

This mix of practical building, experimenting, and operating gave everyone a chance to try something new, develop hands-on skills, and collaborate as a team.

Even though we were already getting hungry again, dinner had to wait…It was time for one of the most beloved traditions of every YOTA camp: the Intercultural Evening!

Participants proudly showcased their home countries, letting everyone travel the world in just one night. Belgium delighted us with fresh waffles, Argentina offered authentic yerba maté, and the Czech Republic brought draft Kofola (a unique Czech soft drink, similar to cola). Many youngsters also shared homemade dishes and family recipes, turning the evening into both a cultural journey and a heartfelt exchange.

By the end of the night, everyone was full, tired, and above all happy. With new friendships forming and so many experiences already behind us, we headed to bed, excited for what the next day would bring.