By, PETRONEAH A. MUGALA, AHAPPY ToT Participant, Kasungu, Malawi.

I thank God for the opportunity to attend this training program. It was a very powerful and transformative experience that has reshaped my perspective on leadership, personal growth, and service to the community. The entire training was anchored in five important sectors, though not detailed, but here is what I have learnt from each one.

First, on Being Attentive, I learned the importance of being present and conscious of what is happening within myself, around me, and in my community. I learned to listen actively, pay more attention and to be more aware of the real challenges my fellow youths are facing. I should know my purpose.

Second, Being Intelligent taught me to go beyond just seeing things but seeking understanding. I learned to question, to reflect and to search for deeper meaning and knowledge before going to conclusions. It has helped me to think critically and creatively. For a better and changed community, we should be like Solomon, who asked God to give him wisdom, because without God’s involvement, we are nothing.

Thirdly, Being Reasonable helped me to judge things well and make good decisions. I learned to discern what is true and right, to weigh options carefully, and to make informed and ethical decisions, especially when faced with peer pressure and difficult choices. The inner cycle, which has 4 dimensions (physical, social, emotional and intellectual), helps us to have a strong inner cycle and not break down easily.

Furthermore, Being Responsible challenged me to take ownership of my decisions and actions. I realised that true leadership is about responsibility, being accountable, being a role model and taking action to bring positive changes in my area.

Finally, Being Wise is putting all the lessons together into action. I learned that wisdom is not just knowledge, but the ability to act with love, compassion, and service for the good of others. To live with good values according to God.

I am happy because throughout the training, we have been interactive through exercises, visiting some sights to appreciate how change in a community has its impact, and being visited by people who have not looked down on themselves. This training empowered me to become a better youth leader and an agent of change (the ambassador AJAN is looking forward to).

I am very grateful to AJAN, the Jesuits, and all our facilitators for this opportunity.

May God bless you all.