Building Hope for the Young at Risk – YaR INK Meet 2025

The YaR (Young at Risk) Commission of the Salesian Province of Bangalore (INK) organized its provincial meeting on September 17–18, 2025, at Don Bosco Monvila, Trivandrum. The gathering brought together 27 Salesians from across the province—from Bidar in the north to Trivandrum in the south—along with Mr. John Joshua, a lay collaborator and YaR Commission member.

The meeting was inaugurated with the Keynote Address by Fr. Joe Fernandes, a veteran and pioneer in the YaR movement, who set the tone for reflection and renewal in the ministry.

The subsequent sessions included input, sharing, and review on the following important themes:

Drug De-addiction initiatives and challenges

Stand-alone Hostels and their role in child care

Alternative Education (NIOS) as a pathway for marginalized youth

Review of the YaR Impact Study conducted by the province

Ministry with Migrants, a growing concern in the province

Plan of Action for the YaR Sector in INK, setting directions for the future

In addition to the deliberations, participants visited the Magic Planet, Mudukkad, a unique centre dedicated to nurturing and showcasing the talents of differently abled children. This exposure enriched the members’ vision of empowering vulnerable youth with creativity and confidence.

The gathering concluded with gratitude to the Rector and community of Don Bosco Monvila for their generous hospitality, excellent arrangements, and warm accompaniment, which contributed to the smooth conduct and fruitful outcome of the meeting.