Empowering youth for a hope-filled future: Insights from the NMCS Easter conference 2025
As part of the youth-led initiatives supported by the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN), volunteers from the Integral Youth Development Program participated in the National Movement of Catholic Students (NMCS) Easter Conference held from April 17–21, 2025, at Shungu High School. This annual gathering united 300 Catholic students from tertiary institutions across Zimbabwe for a week of faith, formation, and youth empowerment.
During the event, the volunteers led peer education sessions on mental health, drug, substance and alcohol abuse, and social entrepreneurship. The team highlighted alarming statistics around drug use among Zimbabwean youth, emphasizing prevention strategies, and available support services offered by the Jesuit youth office through the chaplaincy. Mental health advocate Agnes Mbenene emphasized the importance of emotional wellbeing and shared self-care tips and hotline resources.
In a compelling presentation, Ruvimbo Ndaa- a Law student, discussed the transformative power of entrepreneurship for young Catholics. Her message was clear, financial and personal empowerment begins with bold ideas and a change of mindset.
Feedback from students reflected the impact of these sessions, with many expressing gratitude for the safe spaces and support made available through the initiative.
My biggest take away from the Easter Conference was that life is not all about finding fun in night clubs and alcohol. I realized that there can be so much fun and meaning in praying with people, in the fellowship and bond of love that holds us together as young people in Christ. There was something special about witnessing the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ through our singing and prayer. –
– Tatenda Mugandani, University of Zimbabwe
The conference reminded me that as pilgrims of hope, we’re not alone in our journey. We journey together with Christ, who guides and sustains us. I learned the importance of holding onto hope, even in challenging times, and trusting in God’s plan
– Samantha Chiwawa (National University of Science and Technology)
“Drug misuse has become a widespread problem at our universities due to a multitude of factors, such as a lack of recreational opportunities, academic pressure, and poverty. As a result, students often turn to drug and alcohol misuse for solace. However, the youth office’s initiative to address and attend the issue is commendable; ideally, it will continue so that we may help the students by providing them with alternatives to drug use.”
– Michael T Mutanga, Midlands State University student
Attending the conference taught me the value of communal prayer and worship. Being with peers who understand me brought me joy, and we were able to praise God in ways that resonated with us. The mental health session was particularly impactful, as its highlighted factors that can affect us as students without us realizing it. We also learned about the risks of substance abuse and its impact on young people.
-Isabel Magebede, Catholic University of Zimbabwe
Fr. Peter Banda SJ, Youth Delegate (2nd from Left) together with the youths that attended the Easter Conferenceat Shungu High School, Zimbabwe.
The conference was a powerful platform for youth engagement and empowerment. With continued collaboration from partners like the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN), IYD remains committed to promoting a “HAPPY GENERATION” one champions to build a drug-free generation of resilient, informed, and empowered young leaders.
By, Benjamin T Matsika Integral Youth Development Coordinator, Zimbabwe
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