- 01 July, 2026
Chennai, July 1, 2026: A two-day workshop on Visual Creativity Using Artificial Intelligence concluded successfully on June 28, equipping young Catholics with practical skills in AI-driven visual storytelling and digital communication.
The programme, organised by Madha TV and the Santhome Communications Centre in collaboration with SIGNIS Tamil Nadu, brought together around 25 young participants from northern Tamil Nadu. Coordinated by Rev. Dr. Jenith Sekar, Technical Manager of Madha TV, the workshop formed part of a larger series of seven training programmes being conducted across the dioceses in the four regions of Tamil Nadu.
The initiative is part of the Synergy of Youth Network in Communications (SYNC), a media formation project envisioned by Rev. Fr. David Arockiam, Chief Executive Officer of Madha TV. Over the past two years, SYNC has trained nearly 250 young media enthusiasts, many of whom now contribute to diocesan communication centres, television channels, social media platforms and independent digital media initiatives.
Known as Young Media Warriors, the participants are encouraged to serve as Catholic digital communicators, promoting Gospel values while addressing social issues through contemporary media platforms.
The workshop sought to introduce participants to the growing role of artificial intelligence in visual creativity, enabling them to explore AI-assisted image generation, visual effects, content ideation and digital design through a blend of classroom sessions and hands-on practical exercises.
Inaugurating the programme, Fr. David Arockiam urged the participants to make the most of the opportunity by developing their creative talents and preparing themselves for meaningful careers in media and communications.
The sessions were led by an experienced team of resource persons comprising Fr. V. M. J. Adaikalaraj, Fr. Paula Jayakumar, Fr. Richie Vincent, Mr. Jayachandran, Fr. Daniel Sharma, Dr. Vimal Jerald, Dr. Magimai Pragasam, Ms. Reshma and Fr. Edison. Mr. Peter, SYNC Coordinator, managed the logistics for the workshop.
Participants also learned about NEWA (New Wave), the recently launched YouTube platform of Madha TV and the Santhome Communications Centre, which aims to showcase stories on social, economic, political, cultural and human-interest issues for a wider audience. The trainees are expected to contribute content to the platform as part of their ongoing media formation.
Expressing their appreciation, participants described the workshop as a valuable opportunity to develop professional media skills at a time when such training is often financially inaccessible. They said the initiative had strengthened their confidence and inspired them to make meaningful contributions to the media landscape.
Reflecting on the programme, Rev. Dr. Jenith Sekar said the enthusiastic response from participants was a rewarding outcome after months of preparation. He noted that the workshop marks only the beginning of a longer journey, with continued mentoring and follow-up programmes planned to nurture the participants' growth.
Fr. Jenith and Fr. David Arockiam have been spearheading similar initiatives with the vision of building a vibrant network of young Catholic lay media professionals capable of engaging effectively with today's digital and secular media while witnessing to the Gospel through their work.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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