Regional Student Leadership Training Program

Lighting the Flame of Leadership: The First (YCS/YSM) RSLTP
The Karnataka Regional Youth Commission successfully Organized its first-ever Regional Students Leadership Training Program (RSLTP) from May 1 st to 4 th , 2025, at Don Bosco Child Labor Centre, Davanagere. This RSLTP marks a historical milestone as the region made history by becoming the first in India to successfully organize a RSLTP. This RSLTP sets a precedent within regional boundaries. This significant achievement comes as RYD Fr. Lourd Raj nears the completion of his term. The chairman bishop Most Rev Dr. Henry D’Souza, delivered a deeply moving message that resonated with everyone present,” Burn like the sun, to shine like the sun.” His words powerfully highlighted the essential qualities of leadership needed in today’s youth.

The program included a wide array of enriching sessions. Session on Navigating life by Fr. Ashwin Cardoza (newly appointed RYD), On spirituality - Word of God and my life (for students), and YCSYSM aim, vision, methodology and challenges of handling the youth (especially for Animators) by Fr. Edwin D’Souza, On Don Bosco’s open shelter, child rights, CWC & JJA by FR. Regi, the director of DBCLC, and On Mental Health of Teenagers by Fr. Pius D’Souza, the director of the SMSSS Centre, Shimoga. Each session was designed to inspire and empower the leadership potential and deepen the faith in every participant.

The YCS/YSM Rexco team event, led by the National President Anson, Alisha, Jesvita, Jiya, and Allen, managed cultural moments, prayer sessions, and enriched the program. The diocesan teams from Chikkamagaluru, Belgaum, Bellary, Gulbarga, Mysore and Shimoga carried out the liturgy celebration with great devotion and excellence along with their DYDs Fr. Franklin, Fr. George Fernandes, Fr. Sachin Christy, and Fr. Xavier Ravi. Special recognition was given to Fr. Antony Nazareth on his ordination anniversary. Guests included Fr. Lourd Raj, Fr. Regi, Fr. Alwyn, Fr. Antony Nazareth, Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Sr. Molly, Vileena, Mr. Anson and Jesvita. The Chairman bishop Most Rev. Dr. Henry D’Souza acknowledged Fr. Lourd Raj’s service as Regional Youth Director and Anson’s role in inspiring youth leadership. Fr. Franklin’s prayer session brought healing and deeply strengthened the student’s faith.

YCSYSM members visited an old-age home and a slum, reflecting on social realities and compassion. Rexco members shared their stories of how YCSYSM drove their personal growth and leadership. Don Bosco’s Child Labour Centre has inspired RSLTP participants with compassion for the less privileged. This experience may lead some to pursue missionary work and serve the poor in future. Participants at the RSLTP shared action plans to revive the YCSYSM movement in their parishes, focusing on areas where it had faded. Grateful to Fr. Franklin and Fr. Regi’s hospitality, generosity and care and the Dexco team’s efforts in making this event a success. Special thanks to ICYM President Steevan for going above and beyond. May God bless all involved. The RSLTP emphasized the importance of ongoing formation.