About Us
Zorah the Explorer Summer Camp is a bold, hands-on learning adventure for curious kids ages 8–13 who are ready to explore, create, and lead. Designed to spark imagination and confidence, the camp brings together STEM, AI, global culture, financial literacy, and creativity in a joyful, supportive environment.
Co-created by Dr. Magalie Emile-Backer, biomedical research scientist, entrepreneur, and community leader, alongside her daughter Zorah, the camp was inspired by a simple belief: children thrive when learning feels meaningful, exciting, and connected to the real world.
In partnership with Vienna Adventist Academy (VAA) and hosted by community partners, HRA/IMÜRJ, Zorah the Explorer Summer Camp reflects our commitment to strengthening communities by expanding access to innovative education, nurturing future problem-solvers, and creating pathways for young minds to imagine what’s possible — not just for themselves, but for the world around them.
SESSION 1: Future AI / STEM warriors
Week 1 - June 22 - June 26, 2026
Week 2 - June 29 - July 3, 2026
TIME: 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
This session introduces campers to the exciting world of artificial intelligence, science, and technology through hands-on learning, creativity, and teamwork. Campers explore how technology and research shape the world around them while building confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.
Track 1: AI, Coding & Virtual Reality: Campers explore the basics of artificial intelligence, coding, and computer science using age-appropriate tools and interactive activities. Through immersive virtual reality experiences, they see how technology is used in real-world environments — from healthcare to engineering — while learning to think like young programmers and creators.
Track 2: STEM-Healthcare & Research : This track introduces campers to the fundamentals of healthcare fields and scientific research through hands-on experiments and guided discovery. Campers learn how scientists ask questions, test ideas, and use evidence to solve real-world health and science challenges in fun and engaging ways. Best for aspiring Scientists and Healthcare providers. Introduction to Anatomy, CPR/First Aid, Research Methodology, Data Analysis and Publications.
SESSION 2: Global Citizens Immersion
Week 1 - June 22 - June 26, 2026
Week 2 - June 29 - July 3, 2026
TIME: 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
This immersion session invites campers to explore the world beyond borders through language, culture, food, etiquette, and financial literacy. Campers gain a deeper appreciation for global traditions while building communication skills, cultural awareness, and confidence as global citizens.
Track 3: Global Culture & Language Immersion (French): Campers are introduced to the French language through conversation, music, storytelling, games, and cultural traditions. This track builds confidence in communication while fostering curiosity about global cultures and multilingual learning.
Track 4: Junior Gastronauts – Culinary Immersion: Campers explore world cultures through food, learning basic culinary skills, nutrition, etiquette, and hosting traditions. Through hands-on cooking experiences and cultural discussions, campers connect cuisine to identity, community, and global understanding.
In Partnership with Vienna Adventist Academy
HRA/IMÜRJ is proud to partner with Vienna Adventist Academy (VAA) to host the Zorah the Explorer Summer Camp. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community enrichment. As part of this partnership, a portion of camp proceeds directly supports Vienna Adventist Academy’s school fundraising efforts, helping strengthen educational resources, technology access, and student programming. Together, HRA/IMÜRJ and VAA are creating a meaningful, mission-aligned learning experience that benefits both campers and the broader school community.
Registration Form
Fill out your details below with the Session and Track selection. Once you have submitted your registration form, proceed to the payment option.
Contact Us:
Dr. Magalie Emile-Backer
Text/Call 1.240.425.3438
IMURJCAMP@GMAIL.COM
Location:
Vienna Adventist Academy (VAA): 340 Courthouse Rd SW, Vienna, VA 22180
Payment & Enrollment
Please select the appropriate payment option below based on your eligibility:
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VAA Students Discount: $100 per week (VAA students only)
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Non-VAA Students: Standard camp rate
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Zelle Payment Option: Available for families paying via Zelle
👉 Important: Session and track selection is completed during registration, not at checkout.
Enrollment is confirmed only after payment has been successfully received and verified. Once payment is confirmed, families will receive a confirmation email with next steps and camp details.
For Zelle payments, please be sure to follow the posted instructions and include your camper’s full name in the payment memo to avoid delays.
Non-VAA Students
Week 1 - June 22 - June 26, 2026 / Week 2 - June 29 - July 3, 2026 TIME: 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
- All Learning Materials
- Digital/Culinary Kits
- Lunch & Snacks
- Camp T-Shirt
VAA Students ONLY
Week 1 - June 22 - June 26, 2026 / Week 2 - June 29 - July 3, 2026 TIME: 8:00 AM-3:00 PM
- All Learning Materials
- Digital/Culinary Kits
- Lunch & Snacks
- Camp T-Shirt
Zelle Instructions
For families who prefer to pay via Zelle, We accept secure electronic payments using the information above: Please include the following in the payment memo to ensure accurate processing: Camper’s full name Session and track selected Example: “Jordan Smith – Session 2, Global Citizens Immersion” After submitting your payment, kindly email a payment confirmation or screenshot to imurjcamp@gmail.com. Our team will confirm receipt and finalize your camper’s enrollment.
Terms & Conditions
By registering for the IMÜRJ Zorah the Explorer Summer Camp, parents and guardians agree to all camp policies, schedules, tuition requirements, and behavioral expectations outlined on the HRA/IMÜRJ website and registration materials. Campers are expected to follow all safety rules, respect instructors and peers, and participate appropriately in all activities. HRA/IMÜRJ reserves the right to dismiss a camper whose behavior disrupts the learning environment or poses a safety concern, without refund. Program details, schedules, instructors, and activities are subject to change due to weather, staffing, safety considerations, or unforeseen circumstances.
Refund & Cancellation Policy
All registrations are final after April 22, 2026.
Cancellations made on or before April 22, 2026 may be eligible for a partial refund, minus a non-refundable administrative fee. No refunds will be issued after April 22, 2026, including for absences, illness, schedule conflicts, or early withdrawal. In the event IMÜRJ must cancel a session due to extraordinary circumstances, families will be notified promptly and provided with appropriate next steps.
