Young people from Nyanza and Nyaruguru strengthened their knowledge. Moreover, they grew in confidence and connections through five days of learning, reflection and exchange.
Eight young people supported by Dufatanye Organization joined more than 3,500 participants at the 22nd National Catholic Youth Forum, held from 19–23 August.
Representing Nyanza and Nyaruguru districts, four girls and four boys participated.
They joined alongside young people from Rwanda’s nine dioceses, as well as participants from Italy, Uganda, Tanzania and Burundi.
The gathering was organized by the Commission Episcopal pour la Pastorale des Jeunes (C.E.P.J.) under the theme: “We Are Witnesses of Hope, Fraternity and Peace.”
For the participating young people, the forum was more than a large gathering. It offered an opportunity to learn, meet people from different backgrounds, reflect on issues affecting young people today and strengthen the values and skills they can carry back into their communities.
Learning beyond the classroom
The forum combined discussions, practical learning, cultural activities and faith-based reflection. One of the major topics explored was social media and responsible digital engagement. Participants heard from Fr. Jean de Dieu, members of the Digital Team and influencers who shared different perspectives on online content and its potential effects on young people.
The discussions encouraged participants to think critically about what they see and consume online and to become more conscious of how digital platforms influence their decisions and daily lives.
Another important area was drug and substance-abuse prevention. Representatives from institutions including RICH, Rwanda Biomedical Center and Rwanda National Police contributed to discussions aimed at helping young people understand the risks associated with substance abuse and the importance of making informed choices.
The program also included teachings on peace, fraternity, faith and the sacraments, supported by senior clergy including Mgr. Edouard Sinayobye, Mgr. Papias Musengamana, Father Alexis and Father Celestine.
Together, these sessions created a learning experience that connected everyday challenges facing young people with values, responsibility and personal development.
Daniel: Broadening horizons through connection
For Daniel, one of the young people supported by Dufatanye, interacting with participants from different parts of Rwanda and from other countries was one of the most valuable aspects of the experience.
Before attending the forum, Daniel had already developed practical skills through Dufatanye’s support, including livestock farming, agriculture, shoemaking and saving. Meeting other young people and exchanging experiences gave him an opportunity to look at those skills from a wider perspective and reflect on how he could continue applying and developing them.
Rather than simply acquiring another technical skill, the forum exposed Daniel to different ideas, experiences and ways of thinking – an important part of preparing young people to participate confidently in their communities.
Beatha: Thinking differently about social media
For Nyirangendahimana Beatha, one of the most important lessons came from the sessions on social media.
Before the forum, she had not been fully aware of some of the potential negative effects of online content. The discussions helped her better understand the importance of making conscious choices about what she watches, follows and consumes online.
With that knowledge, Beatha is now better equipped to approach social media more thoughtfully and to prioritize content that contributes positively to her life and development.
Why opportunities like this matter
At Dufatanye Organization, youth development goes beyond technical training.
Our vision is to contribute to thriving and inclusive societies that collaboratively drive their own transformation. We believe this requires young people who are equipped not only with practical knowledge, but also with confidence, values, life skills and opportunities to learn from others.
Experiences such as the National Catholic Youth Forum complement the practical skills young people gain within their communities by exposing them to new ideas, relationships and perspectives.
By enabling eight young people from Nyanza and Nyaruguru to participate, Dufatanye sought to give them an opportunity to learn, connect, reflect and grow – and ultimately bring that experience back into their own lives and communities.
Partnership creating opportunities for young people
Dufatanye Organization extends its sincere appreciation to the Commission Episcopal pour la Pastorale des Jeunes (C.E.P.J.) and everyone who organized, facilitated and contributed to the forum.
The opportunity enabled our young people to learn alongside thousands of others from Rwanda and beyond, exchange experiences, establish new connections and strengthen their personal development.
Dufatanye looks forward to strengthening partnerships that create even more opportunities for young people to learn, develop their potential and contribute positively to their communities.