Giving Family a Second Chance
Jamie attended the pilot FamChamps Camp in 2014 as a teenager. Through activities such as FamQuest, workshops on family dynamics and the 5 Love Languages, as well as meaningful conversations with family members during Honour Night, Jamie left the programme with a deeper appreciation for family and a desire to strengthen relationships at home.
At the time, there did not seem to be an urgent need for change. Family life felt relatively stable, and many of the lessons learnt remained convictions rather than necessities.
Everything changed in 2019.
Shortly after completing A-levels, Jamie received a phone call that would alter the course of family life. A divorce was underway, and in the years that followed, family relationships became strained. As the pandemic unfolded, Jamie found herself navigating university life while grappling with disappointment, resentment and a growing sense of distance from his father.
For a period of time, it felt easier to remain disconnected. Yet the values and convictions formed through FamChamps continued to shape how Jamie responded. Deep down, she believed that family was still worth fighting for.
After years of estrangement, Jamie chose to take the first step. She initiated a trip with her father and sister, creating space for conversations that had long been avoided. Although the process was uncomfortable and often challenging, it became the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship. Through these experiences, Jamie gained a deeper understanding of her father's story and rediscovered the love that had often gone unspoken.
Looking back, Jamie believes FamChamps helped shape the mindset and courage needed to become a catalyst for positive change when her family faced one of its most difficult seasons.
Today, she continues to champion the belief that strong families are worth investing in.
"Giving my family a second chance is a cause I'm willing to stand for. Support youths and their endeavours. You might be surprised at the lengths we'll go to build stronger families for tomorrow."
Jamie Lee
Pioneer Participant of FamChamps and President, 1st FamChamps Council
