ICYM NE-NERYC Hosts Dynamic Youth Leadership Summit in Guwahati

Guwahati, February 5, 2025: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement North East Region (ICYM NE), guided by the North Eastern Regional Youth Commission (NERYC), organised the Regional Executive Committee and Diocesan Executive Committee (REXCO-DEXCO) Youth Leadership Program and Regional Council Meeting from January 29 to 31, 2025, at the North East Diocesan Social Service Society (NEDSSS) in Kharguli, Guwahati. Over 87 delegates from various dioceses across the North East region attended the event.

ICYM NE-NERYC organised this initiative to empower young leaders in the region and build a dynamic network of change-makers and innovators. The event gathered leaders from 15 dioceses to address youth issues, brainstorm solutions, and enhance leadership skills. Key discussions focused on the challenges of Catholic youth leadership and development.

The program began with a recollection and adoration led by Rev. Fr. John Barman, MSFS, Regional Youth Director. Mr. Huimingam Jonah Chithung, Regional Youth President, welcomed the attendees with a speech. Students from the Women Development Centre (WDC) and Don Bosco Institute (DBI) performed vibrant cultural pieces, adding energy to the event.

The program on the second day began with the Holy Mass, celebrated by Rev. Fr. Bivan Mukhim, SDB, Vice Provincial of Salesian Guwahati Province, and co-celebrated by the Diocesan Youth Directors. Following the Mass, the ICYM flag was hoisted. The leadership orientation session featured an animation from Tura Diocese, followed by a motivational message from Rev. Fr. Cletus Sebastian SDB, Executive Director of Don Bosco Institute.

The day's discussions included presentations from diocesan leaders about their activities. Rev. Fr. John Barman, MSFS, led a plenary session on amplifying youth voices and creating active youth movements in the region. The evening included a devotion to St. Gonsalo Garcia at SFS Shrine, Narengi, outdoor games, and a cultural exchange. ICYM NE-NERYC also launched its Youth Front biannual magazine. The day ended with a celebration of St. John Bosco's patron feast day.

On the final day, the ICYM North East Regional Council meeting was held. Mr. Huimingam Jonah Chithung emphasised the Regional Youth Council's role in empowering young people and advocating for their recognition. The meeting generated actionable plans for the upcoming year, with all 15 dioceses sharing their future initiatives.

The three-day event strengthened the bond between dioceses and promoted collaboration on youth leadership initiatives within the church and society. The event concluded with Rev. Fr. John Barman, MSFS, and Rev. Fr. Niran Rabha, DYD of Tezpur Diocese, lowering the ICYM NE flag, marking the end of a significant and impactful meeting.

By Ms. Daisy Zomuankimi

Regional Youth Secretary