YSM Udupi Elects New Central Council, Empowers Youth at District Gathering

Udupi, July 5, 2025 — More than 220 student leaders and animators from across the Udupi Diocese gathered at the Anugraha Pastoral Centre on 3 July for the Young Students Movement (YSM) District Central Council Election, Annual General Body Meeting, and a youth training programme.

An interreligious prayer service, led by students of St. Lawrence English Medium School, Moodubelle, set the tone for a day focused on unity, leadership, and faith-based action.

Interactive training sessions followed, led by Rev. Fr. Ashwin Cardoza (Karnataka Regional Youth Director), who guided the animators through a thought-provoking session. Mr. Anson Nazareth (National YCS/YSM President) and Rev. Fr. Steven Fernandes (Diocesan Youth Director) engaged student leaders through dynamic discussions on leadership rooted in values and service.

During the Annual General Body Meeting, chaired by Rev. Fr. Fernandes, a new District Central Council was elected. Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo was named Chairman, with Rev. Fr. Fernandes continuing as Director and Mr. Prince Danthy appointed as Animator. 

Student leaders elected to key posts included Alani Danthy (President – Don Bosco School, Shirva), VeeKsha R. Acharya (Vice President – St. Lawrence School, Moodubelle), Irol Geena Dsouza (Secretary – Mount Rosary School, Santhekatte), Drishya Suvarna (Joint Secretary – Milagres School, Kallianpur), Poorvi V. Poojari (Treasurer – St. Francis Xavier School, Udyavar), and Nishcay N. Kumar (PRO – Christ School, Manipal). Jiya Cutinho, Flavian Noronha (Regional), and Anson Nazareth (National YSM President) were named as ex-officio members.

The handing-over ceremony was compered by Prithvi from Trinity School, Perampalli, with a welcome address delivered by Bhagyashree from Nirmala Kannada Medium School, Brahmavar. Outgoing leaders Sanvi and Yajna (Milagres English Medium School, Kallianpur) shared their personal experiences with YSM, encouraging the next generation to lead with purpose.

Mrs. Sandra Lobo was honoured for her two years of committed service as animator, and Rev. Fr. Ashwin Cardoza received a special felicitation in light of his recent appointment as Regional Youth Director.

Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Mr. Richard, teacher at Milagres High School and former YSM animator, applauded the youth for their dedication and inspired them to build communities rooted in compassion and responsibility.

By Irol Geena D'Souza 

Secretary - YSM Udupi diocese