Myanmar YMCA’s Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth (SDSYE) Program

Myanmar YMCA’s Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth (SDSYE)  Program

The Myanmar YMCA’s Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth (SDSYE) Program successfully held its signature “Adventure Awaits : Horizon Youth Camp” from June 11 to 17, 2025, at the beautiful Chaung Tha Beach in Pathein Township, Ayeyarwady Region. The camp brought together 29 motivated youth from Yangon and Pathein regions for a transformative journey focused on personal growth, soft skills development, and active community engagement.

Over the course of seven days, the participants engaged in a dynamic program combining indoor workshops, interactive group sessions, and outdoor experiential learning.  The camp curriculum centered on essential soft-skills including leadership, communication, teamwork, volunteerism,  problem-solving, decision-making, and psychosocial support skills critical for success in both personal and professional life.

Evening programs added further excitement and depth, featuring special talks, storytelling competitions, song and talent shows, and human drama performances. These night-time sessions addressed pressing social themes such as environmental conservation, gender-based violence awareness, and relationship management, encouraging meaningful dialogue and reflection among participants.

This youth camp was part of its holistic approach, integrating skill development with social awareness in a supportive, adventurous setting. Beachside team challenges, collaborative problem-solving, and creative expression made the camp both educational and fun. Participants walked away with renewed confidence and a clear sense of purpose.

Evaluate the camp, a significant number of youth reported notable personal growth: 80% of attendees improved their soft skills and applied them in daily life, resulting in positive behavioral and attitudinal changes. Enhanced Leadership and Self-Management: Many participants demonstrated improved self-discipline, confidence, and the ability to lead and manage themselves effectively in real-life situations. Improved Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Practical case studies and peer collaboration sharpened their strategic thinking and decision-making skills. Strengthened Communication: Youth expressed themselves more clearly and confidently in both personal and professional settings. Increased Volunteerism and Community Engagement: Inspired by sessions on social responsibility, many participants committed to giving back to their communities through volunteer efforts. Stronger Teamwork and Collaboration: Through trust-building and group activities, participants strengthened their capacity for working in diverse teams. Personal Development through SWOT Analysis: Youth conducted self-assessments to understand their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats enabling them to set clear self-improvement goals. Balanced Skill Development: The camp emphasized blending soft and hard skills to align with personal ambitions and career readiness.

The SDSYE Program is a flagship initiative under YMCA Vision 2030, aiming to empower Myanmar’s youth by focusing on four pillars: community well-being, meaningful work, a sustainable planet, and a just world. The program offers six key components to support youth development; Youth Camps for soft-skills empowerment, Speaker Programs for knowledge and motivation, Sharing and Learning Workshops for peer exchange, Internship Programs to gain work experience, Scholarships for professional skill development, Youth-led Community Actions to foster leadership.

In a time of national crisis and instability, the Myanmar YMCA remains committed to creating safe spaces and opportunities for youth to learn, lead, and thrive. Despite the challenging situation in the country, the Empower Quest Camp stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential of Myanmar’s youth. SDSYE program aims to equip 900 youth with job readiness skills through targeted project activities to enhance their employment opportunities.

Saw Tun Lu

Manager

Sustainable Development through Strengthening Youth Employment

Myanmar YMCA