From 27 to 30 November 2025, the Jesuit Youth Office of the Southern Africa Province (SAP), in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Young Christian Students (ZYCS), convened an inspiring leadership and advocacy training at the Makumbi Pastoral Centre. The gathering brought together 45 young leaders from six high schools, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment for formation, reflection, and empowerment.

Over four days, the programme focused on strengthening the leadership capacity of ZYCS members, equipping both school-based and national leaders with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to be transformative figures in their communities. The training blended learning, dialogue, and faith-based reflection, fostering a holistic approach to leadership development.

Participants were enriched by a series of impactful keynote sessions delivered by influential speakers. Mr. David Munhumeso Manenji, the first ZYCS President, opened the formation with a moving exploration of the movement’s rich history and enduring mission. He reminded the students of the legacy they inherit and the responsibility they carry in shaping society today.

Shereen of the Youth Empowerment and Transformation Trust (YETT) deepened the conversation by introducing the Students’ Academic Freedom Regional Advocacy Program (SAFRAP). Her session equipped the young leaders with practical advocacy tools, policy awareness, and strategies for engaging effectively in educational and civic spaces.

Bringing a spiritual dimension to the conversations, Fr. J. Maseko, National Youth Coordinator for the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ZCBC), offered a faith-inspired perspective on leadership within Catholic movements. He emphasized leading with integrity, compassion, and Gospel values, urging participants to embody Catholic Social Teaching in their daily lives and to serve their communities with courage and humility.

Throughout the training, the central mission remained clear: to cultivate informed, articulate, socially conscious leaders grounded in strong moral values. Through interactive sessions, group work, personal reflection, and practical exercises, the young participants gained tools to positively influence their school environments and address the social justice issues facing their peers.

The Jesuit Youth Office SAP and ZYCS reaffirmed their commitment to nurturing a generation of confident, ethical, and proactive young people—leaders prepared not only to make an impact in their schools but to shape a more just and compassionate society.

By, Benjamin T Matsika

Youth Co-ordinator
Integral Youth Development Program, Zimbabwe.