SALESIAN YOUTH SYNOD: Inspiring Young Hearts to Dream and Transform Lives
By Sr. Tryness Mulubwa, Kasama Archdiocese The Salesian Sisters (FMA), Salesian Priests (SDB), and Salesian Cooperators of the ZMB Province—comprising Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Namibia, and Botswana—are celebrating the success of the Salesian Youth Synod. This transformative gathering brought together young people under the theme, “The Dream That Makes You Dream: A Heart That Transforms Wolves into Lambs.” The Synod has served as an inspiring journey of prayer, community life, and deep reflection. A Dream Rooted in Don Bosco’s Legacy The Synod took inspiration from the profound dream of Don Bosco at the age of nine, marking its 200th anniversary. This dream, which continues to inspire the Salesian mission, was a central theme as the event sought to contribute to the Synodality of the Church. The core aim was to help young people discover, nurture, and realize their dreams with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, putting Christ at the center of their lives and aspirations. Enriching Activities The five-day event was rich in activities designed to engage and empower the youth. Key Messages from the Talks The Oratory Experience One of the highlights of the Synod was the Oratory Experience, where youths engaged in various activities, including games, socializing, and selling items. This lively atmosphere fostered community spirit and collaboration. Voices from the Youth The Synod’s impact was evident in the testimonies of participants: A Path Forward The Salesian Youth Synod was a testament to the enduring relevance of Don Bosco’s vision. By guiding young people to dream big, remain faithful, and work diligently, the Synod empowered participants to transform their lives and communities. As the Salesian family continues to celebrate milestones like the 150th anniversary of their missionary expeditions, events like these remain a beacon of hope, faith, and inspiration for young people across the ZMB Province.
Emerging Farmers Initiative: Empowering Youths Through Sustainable Agriculture
In the southern part of Zambia, the Sisters of the Holy Spirit have embarked on a mission to transform lives through the Emerging Farmers Initiative. Situated in Mazabuka and operating under the James Corboy Secondary School Production Unit, this Eco-friendly, integrated agricultural project empowers young people with hands-on skills to turn farming into a sustainable business. Recognizing the challenges of youth unemployment and the limitations of traditional academic paths, the initiative provides practical training in poultry farming, piggery, aquaculture, gardening, and feed production. It opens doors for students to explore agribusiness, regardless of their academic performance, creating new opportunities for self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Beyond skills development, the program emphasizes Eco-friendly farming practices, utilizing natural solutions for crop maintenance and disease treatment. This approach not only protects the environment but also inspires innovation among participants. Despite its success, the project faces challenges, including high operational costs and reliance on an unstable power grid. Yet, with the support of donors and the resilience of the sisters, it continues to thrive, providing hope and opportunities to many. This initiative is more than just a training program—it’s a lifeline for the community and a beacon of sustainable development. Discover the journey of hope and transformation below!
Transforming Lives: Bauleni Special Needs Project Empowering Zambia’s Youths
Bauleni Special Needs Project is dedicated to providing quality education and life skills training to children with special needs in Lusaka and beyond. Founded by the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, the project emphasizes respect, compassion, and human dignity, inspired by the words of their founder. The project focuses on inclusive education for children with disabilities, offering tailored skills training in areas like agriculture, fashion design, and food production. With the support of various donors, the project has helped empower many youth, enabling them to live independently and pursue employment or small businesses. Watch the full story of how this initiative is transforming lives.