Jashore YMCA organized a Youth Empowerment Workshop on Community Leadership

Youth Empowerment Workshop-2024

Organized By: Jashore YMCA

Date: 16th September 2024

The Youth Empowerment Workshop 2024, hosted by Jashore YMCA, was held on 16th September 2024. The event began with a prayer led by Rev. Dr. David Tonmoy Biswas from Jashore Baptist Church. His words inspired the participants to focus on their values and the power of faith in personal and community growth.

The opening ceremony was a key moment, with Mr. Joseph Biswas, Vice President of the National Council of YMCAs of Bangladesh, leading the inauguration. He spoke about the important role of the YMCA in helping young people grow. Mr. Nipun Sangma, National General Secretary of the YMCA Bangladesh, was the Guest of Honor and shared insights on national youth initiatives. Mr. John Dilip Das, President of Jashore YMCA, also spoke to encourage youth participation.

A special guest, Ms. Angela Gomes, Founder of Banchte Shekha, attended the event. She emphasized the importance of including women in youth programs and shared her experience in community development. Other notable guests included Mr. Flevian D' Costa, Chairperson of the Youth Committee, and Mr. Ronel Francis Costa, Executive Secretary for the National Council of YMCAs, who shared the YMCA’s history and vision for the future.

The workshop included three main sessions. The first session, led by Mr. Bappi Gazi, Vice President of Jashore YMCA, discussed the challenges facing today’s youth, such as unemployment and social pressures. He encouraged the participants to stay true to their values while being flexible in facing challenges.

Mr. Flevian D' Costa led the second session on youth leadership. He helped participants explore their leadership potential through group activities and discussions.

The third session, led by Mr. Nipun Sangma, focused on mental health. He talked about the pressures youth face today and provided tips on managing stress and building emotional resilience. Mr. Ronel Francis Costa then led a meditation session to close the session.

After the workshops, the participants enjoyed a cultural program that included music, dance, and drama. This part of the day brought everyone together and showed the creative talents of the young people.

The day ended with a vote of thanks from Mark Anckon Biswas, General Secretary of Jashore YMCA. I thanked the facilitators, participants, and special guests, as well as the National Council of YMCAs of Bangladesh for their support. I reminded everyone that this workshop was just the start of the journey to empowering the youth.

In conclusion, the Youth Empowerment Workshop 2024 was a successful event. It gave young people the tools and inspiration they need to become leaders in their communities. The event was full of learning, reflection, and celebration, and it will have a lasting impact on everyone who attended.

By Mark Anckon Biswas

General Secretary, Jashore YMCA