Meet our Lake Anne Craft Vendors: Philip Lilienthal - Global Camps Africa

by Sarah Golden, Staff Writer

A different kind of vendor: Philip Lilienthal sells crafts from South Africa to raise money for his camps.

Every weekend, locals gather at the Lake Anne market to pick up vintage jewelry, handmade candles, and unique hand-quilted scarves. While these items add charm, one vendor offers something life-changing.

Reston resident Philip Lilienthal, founder and president of Global Camps Africa, runs a nonprofit dedicated to empowering South African youth with the skills and resources needed to transform their lives. He and his team organize youth camps near Johannesburg that blend the fun of traditional camp activities—playing sports, crafting, singing, and dancing—with essential life skills. For example, campers in yoga classes learn not only poses but also techniques for managing stress and building resilience. Those in arts and crafts get to express creativity while learning the value of individualism and self-expression.

Lilienthal explained that these experiences also allow campers to challenge myths and stereotypes they may have internalized. Many come from underprivileged areas still shadowed by apartheid’s legacy. Although South Africa has changed in recent decades, Lilienthal noted that many children are still not raised with the idea that the world is their oyster. When campers learn a new skill they were once told they couldn’t do, it sparks a new line of thinking: If I could do this, what else is possible? This opens the door to a world of possibilities.

The impact of these camps is visible almost immediately. After just eight days, 80 to 90 percent of campers report seeing the world differently. Since its founding 21 years ago, Global Camps Africa has welcomed more than 21,000 young people. For many, the camp experience has sparked change not only in their lives but also in their communities.

This positive impact is a testament to the camp’s educational programs as well as the dedication of its volunteers. About 200 people from all over the world assist in running the camps, helping campers connect with individuals they would never meet otherwise. Some of the camp's most successful graduates go on to join its leadership program, becoming counselors themselves. Many come to the U.S. as summer camp counselors and then bring new skills and experiences back to their communities in Africa.

Although most of Lilienthal’s work for Global Camps Africa is overseas, Reston remains his home base. Several years ago, he set up a booth at the Lake Anne market to sell South African crafts—both to raise funds for the camps and to share the nonprofit's mission with fellow Restonians. Market-goers can stop by to learn more about the camps and get involved.

Can’t wait until Saturday? Learn more about Global Camp Africa’s work at www.globalcampsafrica.org.