Mr. Laurent Bujirikea, a student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kenya, visited the AJAN Secretariat at Africama House in Nairobi on November 14, 2025, to collect his award as the First Runner-Up in the Tertiary Category of the AHAPPY Storytelling Youth Contest 2025. He had been announced earlier among the top storytellers, and his visit officially marked the handover of his certificate and recognition. The occasion highlighted his creativity and commitment, as well as AJAN’s ongoing mission of empowering and accompanying young people as Pilgirms of Hope.

The AJAN director, Fr. Ismael Matambura SJ, illuminated the purpose behind this year’s competition topic. “We aimed to emphasize hope, one of the theological virtues. Despite the many challenges we face today, as Christians, we must hold onto hope. It is essential for the growth of every individual, and we are thrilled to see young people expressing themselves through their poetic works.” He acknowledged the various categories, including primary, secondary, and university levels, showcasing contributions from each.

Reflecting on his journey in the competition, Laurent shared how a friend’s encouragement sparked his passion for poetry, which he actively shares on his social media accounts. Motivated by this support, he chose to present his thoughts to the world in a creative way. As a foreign student from the Democratic Republic of Congo, he recognized the pressing issue of alcoholism among youth in his country, which often leads to crime. He inspired young people to embrace awareness, stating, “The youth need to understand that everything in life has value. I hope for strong values, and we must cultivate one another’s objectives, economic power, and capacity for change.”

In his closing remarks, Fr. Ismael highlighted the programs organized by AJAN, which focus on the holistic development of youth. He urged them to embrace their creativity as a powerful tool for social transformation.

By, Agi Peter Onah SJ.,

AJAN Liaison Officer.