by Bernadette Menezes for BISMumbai

The Don Bosco Youth Animation Sector of South Asia along with the Province of Chennai (INM) organized SYM Fest 2024-25 for the South Asia Region at Sacred Heart College, Tirupattur, Tamil Nadu, from December 29, 2024, to January 1, 2025. The event brought together over 1,800 participants from India, Sri Lanka, and Nepal under the theme 'Young People as Agents of Change: Anchored in Hope.

 The event featured a variety of activities, including interactive youth sessions, games, performances, competitive rangoli and poster designing, cultural exchange programs, and opportunities for spiritual renewal.

 Participants also engaged in thought-provoking sessions included 'Social Media: The Magic, The Logic, and The Tragic' by Fr. Ernest Rosario SDB and 'Youth and Integral Ecology' by Dr. Sultan A. Ismail, a scientist and member of the Tamil Nadu State Planning Commission. These sessions addressed present concerns while also challenging the youngsters present to understand the situation at present and take necessary steps to improve it for the better.

 Sr. Lolya FMA  led a session on SYM spirituality, while Fr. Alexander Patrick Anthonyraj, the Secretary to the Vicar of the Rector Major, reflected on the past, present, and future of SYM in which Leander Pereira from Mumbai shared his experiences from the SYM Synod.

 A powerful Praise and Worship session was led by SYM INB, INN, and INC which offered participants an opportunity for spiritual renewal through moments of confession, prayer along with praise and Worship. 

The youth were given time to develop actionable plans for SYM in their respective provinces, which would later contribute to shaping a unified vision for the SYM South Asia Region. The second day concluded with a Christmas Cantata, a beautiful portrayal of the Nativity scene brought to life through lights and music, performed by a talented group of artists. The entire show of an hour and a half left the youth deeply inspired and in awe.

 On December 31, the event featured a Cultural Exchange and a vibrant rally in traditional attire, celebrating the diversity of traditions. During the rally, participants pledged their commitment to a sustainable future.

 The day concluded with a serene multilingual Rosary and a candlelight procession, honoring the blessings of Mary, our Mother, on the year's final evening. 2024 concluded with a night of carol singing by participants from various provinces, showcasing reels and other performances highlighting province wise efforts, and a warm welcome to the New Year.

 The final day, January 1, was significant as Alisha Khemali, Rhea Mhankale and Oshien Sequeira, from the Salesian Province of Bombay, along with other youth were honored with the 'Star of Hope' award from the province. Additionally 10 actionable resolutions were presented by the SYM South Asia representatives, highlighting the roadmap for SYM's growth in the years ahead. The SYM Fest 2024-25 concluded with a Holy Mass, a vote of thanks, and a prize distribution ceremony.

 Overall, SYMFEST 2024 provided a valuable platform for youth to engage in meaningful discussions, explore their faith, and celebrate their diverse cultures while fostering a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility and interfaith harmony.