meet our staff

At Camp Lingua, our team comes from diverse backgrounds but shares one passion—working with children. From counselors to admin, everyone plays a key role in making camp unforgettable. With 26+ years of experience in camp management, we ensure smooth communication and amazing memories.
Unlike other camps, most of our staff work year-round at our Broward campus in after-school, events, and microschool programs—bringing expert training and deep commitment to every camper’s experience.

more than a camp a family

At Camp Lingua, counselors are big brothers, big sisters, and mentors, guiding campers through an unforgettable experience. They inspire, support, and create lasting bonds while ensuring safety and growth.
While campers may see their counselors as friends, our staff balances fun with leadership, setting healthy boundaries for everyone’s well-being. This creates a nurturing, adventurous, and enriching camp environment—just like family.

who do we hire?

Our sleepaway camp staff are bilingual adults, hailing from our Broward year-round facility, as well as West Palm Beach and international locations. Many have grown up as campers or CITs (Counselors in Training) before joining our team, bringing a wealth of experience and a diverse perspective to ensure a fun, safe, and multilingual environment for every camper.

24/7 attention

At Camp Lingua, our team consists of head staff, administration, maintenance, counselors, teachers, cooks, cleaning staff, and more. With a 6:1 camper-to-staff ratio, we ensure every camper receives personalized attention in a safe, fun, and enriching environment.

LEADERSHIP TEAM

camp founders

Pares Family

With over 26 years of experience, the Pares family laid the foundation of Camp Lingua, creating one of Florida’s most unique and beloved camps. Their passion and vision earned the camp state recognition and accreditation, and their legacy has stayed strong through the decades.

They’ve remained committed to the original mission: crafting FUNtastic summers in a safe, language-rich environment. Today, they continue to provide daily guidance and leadership to the team each summer at our West Palm and Broward locations

camp founders

Samantha Petitjean

With over 7 years at Camp Lingua, Samy leads our crew with energy, empathy, and a deep commitment to youth development. From day camps to overnight programs and special events, she knows what it takes to create meaningful and lasting camp experiences. Holding a degree in Behavioral Neuroscience, she brings a unique blend of practical knowledge & hand’s on experience in child development, education, and community outreach—allowing her to support both campers’ & staff personal growth.

Outside of camp, Samy enjoys traveling, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with loved ones. Whether she’s leading staff training or checking in on cabin life, she brings warmth, leadership, and a passion for making Camp Lingua a place where every camper and team member can thrive.

assistant directors

Puchi & Jorge

Valentina and Jorge joined Camp Lingua in 2021 as counselors and have grown to join our admin team. Valentina handles day-to-day operations, supporting campers, staff, and families. Jorge coordinates night activities, recreation, and entertainment for Sleep Away Camp, ensuring every evening is packed with fun, energy, and unforgettable camp moments.

Both work year-round at our Broward campus, overseeing office tasks and after-school programs.

media & creative activities coordinators

Maria (Vicky) & Dani

Vicky works year-round in marketing and event management at the Broward location, overseeing creative advertising, photo and video delivery, and social media content for Camp Lingua.

Dani plans and directs creative activities, such as themed nights, shows, and special camp events, bringing excitement to the camp experience.

CAMP COORDINATOR

Ori

Oriana first joined Camp Lingua as a camper in 2017 and has been part of our team for the past three years. She has worked at both locations and events, gaining experience in all areas of camp life.

As Head Counselor, she works closely with the coordinators and directors to carry out daily schedules and activities, manages staff, and ensures everything runs smoothly.