On February 22-23, 2025, the Labor Rights for All (LRA) program of MAP Foundation organized a two-day Leadership Migrant Camp at Touch Star Resort, Chiang Mai. The camp brought together 50 migrant workers from different work sectors to share experiences, build teamwork, enhance leadership skills, and strengthen networks.

The workshop included learning sessions on labor rights, team-building exercises, and leadership development activities on the first day. 

On the second day, participants engaged in outdoor activities, rotating through four different learning stations:

1. Blindfolded Makeup Challenge: Participants closed their eyes and applied makeup to a friend without speaking, emphasizing the difficulties of navigating documentation without access to information and highlighting the importance of communication.

2. Balloon Protection Game: Each participant tied a balloon to their ankle, wrote something they most valued on it, and tried to protect it while breaking others’ balloons. This exercise symbolized the struggle for success in society—balancing personal ambition with the need to protect loved ones.

3. Blindfolded Leadership Exercise: Team members were blindfolded while only one leader could see and give instructions. This reflected the reality of many migrant workers, where only employers are aware of labor rights, often leading to exploitation. It underscored the importance of learning about labor rights, accessing available services, and forming migrant groups to strengthen bargaining power.

4. Bridge-Building Challenge: Participants first built a road without communication and then repeated the task with communication. The activity demonstrated that collaboration and effective communication lead to stronger, more effective outcomes.

At the end of the camp, all participants gathered for a final reflection and evaluation session. Many expressed the desire for this workshop to be held annually, as they gained valuable knowledge, made new friends, and had fun.

         One participant shared, "I can easily follow and understand because we learn through games that are both meaningful and fun. Every session relates to the challenges we face in our daily lives. I will also share what I have learned here with my family and friends."

Before COVID-19, MAP Foundation organized this leadership migrant camp annually. This year marks its revival after five years, once again bringing migrant workers together to learn their rights, build networks, and take collective action. 
Together, we are stronger!