By Ankita Shelke & Fr. Bento D’Souza

On 28 December 2025, Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK) organised a Village Youth Gathering under the WeLead project, bringing together 70+ youth from different villages for a day of reflection, dialogue, and shared learning. The gathering aimed to create a safe and participatory space where young people could better understand themselves, recognise their strengths, and reflect on their role within society.

The WeLead project, supported by Don Bosco Mondo, focuses on empowering women and young people through leadership development, self-awareness, and community engagement. 

The day was structured around interactive sessions that encourage youth to speak openly, listen to one another, and engage with different perspectives. Rather than relying on formal lectures, the gathering emphasised conversation, group discussions, and reflective activities. This approach allowed participants to express their thoughts freely and learn from shared experiences.

One of the most striking aspects of the gathering was the level of engagement throughout the day. Youth participants actively took part in discussions, asked questions, and supported one another’s reflections. The space fostered a sense of trust and openness, enabling young people to talk about their aspirations, challenges, and responsibilities within their communities.

The gathering also focused on helping youth recognise their potential as active contributors to society. Through guided reflection and dialogue, participants were encouraged to take responsibility for shaping a more just, compassionate, and hopeful future, starting within their own villages. The emphasis was on understanding how personal growth, confidence, and responsibility can lead to meaningful action.

The Village Youth Gathering at BGVK reaffirmed the importance of investing in youth-led and youth-centred spaces, especially in rural contexts. With the continued support of Don Bosco Mondo through the WeLead project, initiatives like these continue to strengthen young people’s capacity to engage with their communities thoughtfully and purposefully.

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