SAHAYATHRA: A Fable of Following Your Dream
The regional leadership training camp for youth leaders from the Don Bosco youth centres in Kerala unfolded over two days, 6–7 September, at Don Bosco College, Bathery. Organized by Don Bosco Youth Services, Kerala in collaboration with SIGHT Wayanad, the event drew 110 young participants from across the state, setting the stage for a weekend of reflection, skill-building, and camaraderie. The gathering opened with a spiritual note as attendees welcomed God’s blessing through a hymn to the Holy Spirit. Fr. John Muttathuparambil SDB, the Youth Director for the Kerala region, stood at the forefront to greet the participants and set a warm, inclusive tone for the proceedings. The inaugural function was graced by Rev. Fr. Jose Koyickal SDB, Provincial of the Sacred Heart Province of Bangalore, who served as chief guest. In his address, he underscored the importance of mutual accompaniment among friends—an ethos that would thread through the camp’s sessions and activities.
Following the inaugural remarks, Rev. Fr. Varghese Kaplikunnel SDB, the Youth Service Delegate, and Rev. Fr. Saju, the Administrator of Don Bosco College, addressed the gathering, contributing their perspectives on youth leadership and service. The morning’s program culminated in a session led by Rev. Fr. Dominic Kaniyantharayil SDB, who spoke on leadership skills and the essential role of high self-esteem as a foundation for effective youth leadership. As afternoon arrived, the atmosphere shifted toward personal healing and communal connection. Sri Reshmi, founder of the Koottu community in Wayanad, guided a healing session that offered participants a profound journey into their past. For many, the experience was transformative: tears were shed, and the youths found solace in tears and hugs, a cathartic release that left the group buoyant with renewed energy and positive momentum.
Dinnertime gave way to a lighter, yet equally engaging, moment as a budding band from Kerala led an orchestral singing session. The melodies carried the participants into another emotional plane, fostering unity and shared joy through music. The second day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, followed by an invigorating trekking excursion to the Chethalayam forest. The day’s concluding session brought the narrative back to Sri Reshmi’s guidance, providing continuity and closure to the experiential arc of the camp. An out-of-town excursion capped the camp: a visit to the world-renowned Edakkal Caves. Although the journey proved physically tiring, participants returned with a sense of enrichment and shared stories that would linger beyond the weekend. By evening, the youth dispersed to their respective places, carrying with them a sense of accomplishment, happiness, and gratitude.
Expressions of gratitude were directed toward several key contributors: Rev. Fr. Jose Koyickal SDB for his presence and thought-provoking message; Rev. Fr. Varghese Kaplikunnel for his ongoing support; Rev. Fr. Antony Thekkedath SDB, Rector, and the entire Don Bosco Bathery community for steadfast assistance; and the state executive team for their outstanding organization and four days of dedicated effort. Fr. Jenson Variyath SDB was singled out for ensuring the smooth execution of arrangements, working in concert with DBYSKerala. The organizing body also extended thanks to the Salesian communities and all well-wishers whose financial support underpinned the program’s success. Looking back, the camp appears as a tapestry of leadership development, spiritual nourishment, personal healing, and shared adventure. It left its participants not only with new skills and memories but also with a reinforced sense of purpose and a strengthened network of peers and mentors to accompany them on their journeys.
