YMCA Southern Regional Women’s Assembly & Gender Workshop 2026

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Last Updated (Wednesday, 01 April 2026 01:20)


YMCA Southern Regional Women’s Assembly & Gender Workshop 2026

Date: 6th & 7th March 2026

Venue: YMCA Madurai

Objectives of the Program: To organize a women’s Assembly and Gender workshop  for the members from various YMCAs in the Southern Region of India on the theme ‘Empowered by Grace, Leading with Courage’.


YMCA Madurai hosted the YMCA Regional Women’s Assembly & Gender Workshop 2026 on 6th and 7th March 2026, bringing together participants from various Sub-Regions of the Southern India Region of YMCAs. The programme was conducted with great enthusiasm and active participation.

The programme commenced with a time of praise and worship led by Mrs. Judith Kirubakaran, Member of the Gender Concern Committee, YMCA Madurai. The devotional message was delivered by Fr.J.Benadict Barnabas, President of Madurai YMCA and Member of the National Executive Committee, who shared an inspiring reflection.

Mrs.J. Shamila Doris, General Secretary of YMCA Madurai warmly welcomed the guests and participants.

The Inaugural Address was delivered by Prof. Dr. Johnson Sangeetharaj, Regional Vice-Chairman, who emphasized the importance of strengthening women’s leadership and participation within the YMCA Movement.

Felicitations were offered by Mr. Daniel Ponnappan, Regional Vice-Chairman, and Mr. Robin Dante, Chairman of the Madurai Sub-Region of YMCAs.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Mr. Sam Robert P, Regional Secretary of the Southern India Region of YMCAs, who also presented the outline and objectives of the two-day Assembly.

The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr.D.Janet Vasanthakumari, Chairperson, YMCA Madurai Gender Concern Desk, on the theme “Empowered by Grace, Leading with Courage.” Her address based on the biblical women Esther, Ruth, Deborah and Naomi inspired participants to recognize their potential and take up greater leadership roles in society and within the YMCA Movement.

The Assembly featured several insightful sessions:

  • Session 1: “Rooted in Grace – Biblical & Foundational Identity of Women in the YMCA & Society” by Fr. Paul Michael, Director, LASS – Legal Action & Advocacy Services, Madurai.

  • Session 2: “Courageous Leadership in Action – Women as Decision Makers” by Ms. Premalatha, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, Madurai.

  • Session 3: “Gender Justice & Social Responsibility – The YMCA Mandate” by Rev. Inbaraj Jeyakumar, Faculty Member, Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary. Madurai

  • Session 4: “Entrepreneurship, Economic Empowerment & Resource Mobilisation – Practical Orientation” by Ms. Antony Roselin, Social Entrepreneur and Proprietor of LEDA Café, Madurai.

A special discussion forum and business session encouraged active participation and sharing of experiences among the delegates. Women participants proposed resolutions to further strengthen leadership opportunities and skill development for women within the YMCA Movement.

More than 87 participants from different Sub-Regions took part in this significant regional programme hosted by YMCA Madurai. Members of the Board of YMCA Madurai also actively participated in the inaugural session.

A vibrant cultural programme organized by YMCA Madurai in the evening, performed by special children, added joy and fellowship to the gathering.

On the second day (7th March 2026), YMCA Madurai also marked the observance of International Women’s Day, with staff actively participating in the celebrations. This was followed by a field visit to the historic place Keeladi Excavation Site, offering participants an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. Women participants cut a cake in observance of the International Women's Day.

The programme concluded with a Valedictory Session, during the session certificates were distributed to the participants.

Proceedings, Outputs & Outcomes

  • The women members actively participated in the deliberation of the Assembly

  • Sharing of experiences by the women from the region

  • Discussions of women leadership and Skill Development activities

New Insights Gained:

The need for Courageous leadership and involvement of women in social activities

  • Awareness on individual roles for the transformation of societies

  • Identity of women in the light of God’s grace with special reference to widows

  • Men and women are partners in gender justice.

  • As a YMCA Mandate, participants resolved to respond to injustice, speak out against violence, develop a Sexual Harassment Policy in all YMCAs and organizing  gender sensitivity trainings.

  • Laws should be enacted for the protection of women.

6. Feedback and Quotes:

  • ‘Break the biased stories and create a new story’

  • ‘Women supporting women’

  • Who am I ? Why do I matter? where do I belong?


By J.Shamila Doris

General Secretary

YMCA Madurai