By Fr Jerome Edison for BISMumbai

The National Youth Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm and energy at Don Bosco Parish, Makarpura, bringing together youngsters from various communities of the parish on 13 August 2023. The event aimed to inspire the youth to engage in acts of service, foster unity, and contribute positively to the Church. 

The programme commenced with a solemn prayer service, setting a reflective tone for the activities ahead. The youth gathered to offer prayers for peace, unity, and the well-being of the nation. The serene atmosphere provided a moment of introspection, highlighting the significance of spirituality and mindfulness in their lives.

Fr Isaac Arackaparambil, the Parish Priest and Rector, gave the keynote speech, which reverberated with a message of empowerment, encouraging the youth to embrace their unique potential and play a transformative role in the Church. With passion, he highlighted the importance of self-discovery, emphasising that each individual possesses talents and gifts waiting to be harnessed for the greater good. His words resonated deeply as he urged the young audience to rise above challenges and setbacks, reminding them that adversity can be a stepping stone to growth and resilience. Icebreakers after the keynote speech created an interactive and vibrant environment. Through engaging games and activities, the youth had the opportunity to connect with new acquaintances, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among diverse groups.

One of the highlights of the day was the active enrollment in various service initiatives. Participants enthusiastically signed up for a range of community-driven projects, reflecting their commitment and witnessing their faith. A thrilling treasure hunt added an element of excitement to the event as the youngsters scoured the venue in search of hidden clues, solving riddles and puzzles to unlock the final destination. As a commitment to environmental conservation, a tree plantation drive marked another significant segment of the event. This initiative resonated deeply with the participants, as these young volunteers took to the outdoors, equipped with saplings and gardening tools, to plant trees in designated areas of the campus.

The National Youth Day celebration brought together new young faces with a shared vision for positive change. The event seamlessly combined moments of reflection, fellowship, and active engagement, underscoring the vital role that youth play in shaping a better tomorrow. As the day concluded, the atmosphere was charged with hope, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to serve and uplift society. 

Meanwhile at Don Bosco College, Kurla, the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit organized an exclusive Youth Day celebration on 12 August 2023. The event, held at the Department of Management & Finance, was dedicated to the first-year students of BMS (Bachelor of Management Studies) and BAF (Bachelor of Accounting and Finance) programs.

The celebrations kicked off with engaging ice-breaking activities. Doodle drawing and quizzes initiated interactions and set the tone for the dynamic event. NSS volunteers, fuelled by their dedication, organized an array of games that aimed to challenge and uplift participants in various ways. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as participants eagerly gathered to mark this special occasion.