Empowering Gen Z: Northeast Youth Equipped to Lead with Faith and Purpose

Guwahati, 10 April 2025: In response to the growing need for effective leadership among Generation Z, the North Eastern Regional Youth Commission conducted a three-day Leadership Training Programme under the theme “Grooming Leaders for a New Gen”. Held from 4–6 April 2025 at Guwahati, the event brought together 57 YCS/YSM (Young Catholic Students/ Young Students Movement) students, coordinators, and animators from nine dioceses across Northeast India.

The training aimed to equip young Catholics with the tools to become responsible, God-loving leaders committed to building a just and compassionate society in line with the movement’s vision of establishing God’s Kingdom. Key sessions included “YCS/YSM – Grooming Leaders for a New Gen,” the relevance of the movement to today’s teenagers, and workshops on life skills, mental health, nutrition, stress management, and screen-time balance.

Renowned speakers led the sessions: Advocate Jimmy Pdang, former National President of YCS/YSM and IYCS Asian Coordinator; Ms. Veronica Nriame, psychiatrist and social worker with the District Mental Health Programme, Naga Hospital Authority of India; and Ms. Anuska Teronpi, National Treasurer of YCS/YSM. Each brought unique insights, combining lectures with group activities, animations, and participant engagement.

Garrick Kharmalki from Shillong Archdiocese shared, “These past few days have been phenomenal. I’ve learned what it takes to be a good leader, reflected on my flaws, and grown closer to God.” Similarly, Takam Cecilia from Itanagar Diocese said, “I used to be shy and nervous. This programme taught me that making mistakes is okay—it’s giving up that’s true failure.”

In addition to the sessions, participants took part in daily Holy Mass, Adoration to the Blessed Sacrament, and a vibrant cultural exchange programme celebrating the unity of Northeast India’s diverse tribes and languages. An evaluation session featuring diocesan reports and future plans was moderated by Sr. Wansuk Mary Lyngdoh MSMHC, Regional Coordinator, and Fr. John Barman MSFS, Regional Chaplain.

The training signified the rise of a new generation of confident, faith-driven Gen Z leaders, ready to lead with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to the values of the Church.

By Sr. Wansuk Mary Lyngdoh MSMHC

Regional YCS/YSM Coordinator