The North-East Zonal Salesian Youth Ministry (SYM) Leaders and Animators Formation (LAF) programme was formally inaugurated this morning at Don Bosco Institute of Development and Leadership (DBIdl), Dimapur. The two-day event brings together 75 vibrant youth leaders from the three Salesian Provinces of North-East India—Dimapur, Guwahati, and Shillong—marking a collaborative step forward in strengthening youth ministry in the region.
The programme began with the Holy Mass at 7:00 AM, presided over by Rev. Fr. Joseph Pampackal, Provincial of Dimapur. In his homily, Fr. Pampackal reminded the participants of Don Bosco’s dream for the young and encouraged them to carry that mission forward with dedication and hope.
The inaugural session was graced by Rev. Fr. Bivan, Vice-Provincial of the Salesian Province of Guwahati, as the chief guest. Welcoming the participants, Fr. Nebu Mathew, Rector of the campus, invited the young leaders to “dissolve into society” and become positive influences in the lives of others, adding value and vitality wherever they are.
In his keynote address, Fr. Bivan urged the youth to embrace their role as “the salt of the earth and the light of the world,” challenging them to be agents of change in their communities. He formally declared the event open by lighting the traditional lamp, a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment.
Throughout the two days, the young leaders will take part in a variety of animation and training sessions led by experienced Salesians and youth ministers, including Fr. Bivan and Fr. Clitus (Guwahati Province), Fr. Ritonbor (Shillong Province), and Fr. Theotimus and Fr. Regi Mani (Dimapur Province), along with the dedicated staff of DBYES, Dimapur.
The Leaders and Animators Formation programme seeks to deepen the spiritual foundations of participants, equip them with leadership and animation skills, and inspire them to walk together in Don Bosco’s mission for the young. The event will conclude on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 9:00 PM.
