WITH the 25th World Scouting Jamboree fast approaching, unit leader Abi Littlewood from Taunton is heading to London this weekend for some final preparations.

The World Scouting Jamboree, which is held every four years by a different nation, is this year being hosted by South Korea.

The event will see 50,000 Scouts aged 14-17 years old, from 170 countries unite together.

Abi will be part of a multi-national team of adults, The International Service Team (IST).

The 6,000 strong IST are there to make the Jamboree happen, undertaking a variety of roles to give young people from around the world a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

This could be planning and delivering activities for thousands of participants every day, or providing key services such as medical, catering, and infrastructure.

The IST are the unsung heroes that will make a difference for tens of thousands of international Scouts this summer.

Through being a part of the IST, Abi will have the opportunity to not only pass on their skills to young people but also develop personally.

They will gain a greater insight into global issues, whilst making lasting friendships with adult volunteers from around the globe.

This weekend the UK IST are gathering for their penultimate meeting, where they will collaborate and run through all of the final plans and preparations before they embark on their epic adventure to South Korea.

They will also receive their famous contingency uniforms and kit.

Abi has been supporting their local unit of young people that are attending the World Scout Jamboree, as well as helping Scouts “draw their dream”.

This has included spending time on personal development and using their journey to Korea to inspire others in the local area.

Abi, 18 said: “The wait is almost over and the excitement is tangible.

“This is my first Jamboree so I am looking forward to having opportunities to try something new and immerse myself in new cultures.

“The opportunity has allowed me to enhance my skill set and broaden my horizons for future development, it also allows me to give the young people an amazing experience.”

UK Chief Scout, Bear Grylls, said: “Congratulations to Abi and all the other adult volunteers who have been selected to support this adventure.

“World Scout Jamborees only happen every four years and tens of thousands of Scouts from across the world attend each one.

"Young people could not take part in these life-changing events without the support of adult volunteers like Abi.

"Over the last couple of years adult volunteers have played an important part in holding our communities together.

“Now is their chance to have an adventure. I say #Goodforyou to all those volunteers who want to be part of this adventure.”