Africa Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN) successfully held a five-day workshop in Rumbek, South Sudan, focused on life skills, leadership formation, self-awareness, personal responsibility, and HIV prevention. Held from 9–13 February 2026, the initiative reaffirmed AJAN’s commitment to accompanying and empowering young people and youth across Africa.

Organized in partnership with the Society of Jesus in South Sudan, the training took place at St. Theresa Parish – Mission of Forgiveness and Reconciliation, within the Catholic Diocese of Rumbek. For five days, the parish grounds became a dynamic hub of learning, dialogue, reflection, and renewed hope.

Fifty-three young participants from Holy Family Parish, Holy Cross Parish, Sacred Heart Parish, and St. Theresa Parish took part in the workshop. Through interactive sessions, group work, and practical exercises, they engaged deeply with themes of personal growth, leadership development, and HIV prevention.

More than a training session, the workshop created space for young people to rediscover themselves — nurturing self-awareness, strengthening confidence, and equipping them to accompany their peers. The emphasis was on forming solution-oriented, responsible leaders ready to serve as agents of change within their families and communities.

“It has been an absolute joy to host and witness the dedication, openness, and enthusiasm of our young people. Their commitment gives us hope for a healthier and brighter future,”

Samantha Waki shared her admiration for the participants and the transformation she observed throughout the week.

“To be honest, I am so impressed by the young people I have interacted with — their positive outlook for the future, their interests, and their willingness to move forward,”

“What was missing was simply the tools and the roadmap. We were able to help show them that path. I came to South Sudan with certain negative perceptions based on stories I had heard. But what I have seen here is different. Young people are capable of internalising positive change, and I truly believe in their potential to shape a brighter future.”

Her reflection underscores both the resilience of South Sudanese youth and the importance of accompaniment — walking alongside young people and providing them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to lead change in their communities.

Today, AHAPPY operates in 11 African countries, including South Sudan, reaching young people in schools, parishes, and youth centers. Originally established to respond to HIV among youth, the program has evolved into a broader platform for holistic development — promoting health, leadership, and social responsibility. It accompanies young people aged 10 to 24, while those over 24 are trained as mentors and peer educators to ensure sustainability and youth-led transformation. Across the continent, AHAPPY now functions as a network in 19 countries, strengthening Jesuit youth initiatives and leadership structures.

In South Sudan, AHAPPY was introduced in 2019 through training sessions for youth leaders. The recent Rumbek workshop marks a renewed commitment to accompany young people during a critical period of both personal growth and national transition.

John Yaut, Youth Leader at St. Theresa Parish, reflected on how the experience reshaped his understanding of leadership and community engagement.

“We learned how to welcome and accept others. We were trained to address challenges in our community using solutions rooted in our own context. We must find local answers to the problems we face — involving young people, women, men, the elderly, and the entire community,”

He explained that the workshop stirred a deeper sense of responsibility among participants.

“We are now awakened to address issues of health, leadership, and the challenges facing young people in our communities here in Rumbek.”

John emphasized that the training provided practical tools, renewed confidence, and a strong commitment to serve as responsible leaders and catalysts of positive change within their parish and beyond.

Charity Far Makur, another participant, described how the training strengthened her resolve to confront harmful traditional practices and advocate for girls’ rights. Charity said,

“In our tradition, girls can be forced into marriage. But now I have gained knowledge and confidence. I can advocate for girls to go to school and become an agent of change, I am now able to return to my community and work to bring positive change.”

Her testimony reflects the broader impact of the workshop — not only raising awareness about health and HIV prevention, but also empowering young women to defend education, dignity, and equal opportunity within their communities.

Fr. Kizito Kiyimba, SJ., AOR Provincial, visited the youth on the second day to encourage and support the initiative.

South Sudan, participants were reminded, should not be seen solely through the lens of challenges, but as a land rich with potential.

Speaking at the end of the workshop Ms. Pascalia Sergon, AJAN Development Lead

“The Jesuits in South Sudan have a great opportunity. South Sudan is not a place of problems; it is a place of opportunities. We expect young people to transform challenges into opportunities for creativity, growth, and the development of our nation.”

By, Emmanuel Loboka,

Communications Officer, Jesuits in South Sudan.