Today, the young people play a crucial role, no matter the society they live in, level of education and knowledge they have, their family background or economic status.
Majority of the youths in our Parish of Sacred Heart, Catholic Diocese of Singida, are school leavers who were not able to join the university or be employed. An assessment done concerning their needs showed the following as problems they face; peer pressure, unemployment, relationships, poor motivation, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, communication skills, competition and self- awareness.
Following the assessment, Sr. Maria Magdalena coordinated a three days seminar at the Pastoral and Social Training Centre. A total of fifty five youths and four facilitators attended the seminar.
The seminar was designed to be very interactive and motivating; a moment of exchanging ideas, learning from others, build relationships, foster a sense of belonging to the Church and society.
The topics of; self-awareness, relationships and self-realization, awakened in them the sense of empowerment about self, local and global challenges and how to take action. This was witnessed during their group discussion and presentation. All their questions geared towards their desire to participate, to contribute, to discover, to volunteer and to serve their local communities. This is because it was clear to them that in life is about perseverance and attitude.
The opportunity of meeting and actively participating in the seminar was also a moment for them to discover their talents, build self-esteem, embrace the need of connectedness as young people, and have meaningful and trusting relationships, importance of working as a team and deeper understanding of their life as young people in building a better tomorrow.
They felt comfortable to try new things, showed the confidence to take risks aware that failure should not make them give up, but is an opportunity to learn and a step towards progress. They don’t need to listen and use the opinion of others as their guide posts in life and the goal they desire to achieve. They are agents of change and transformation of a better society and world.
They also realized that now they know where to start and make a difference in small ways and their little strength as an individual and group of young people in the Parish. They programed dates of meeting together at the Pastoral and Social Training Centre for netball and football with the aim of attracting other youths. It is also a way of the implementing what they promised, that is; to be true to themselves, to have firm decisions, to engage God in everything.
As a Religious of the Assumption I felt challenged, affirmed and encouraged to give myself more to the youths as they are passionate to turn problems into opportunities and solutions.
To the youths “I SALUTE YOU” because you are always new, always young, always shining.
By Sr. Maria Magdalena Mgea- Singida Town Community