Southern Africa Salesian Ubuntu Youth Synod

In a gathering of 300 young people from Lesotho, eSwatini, and South Africa, the Ubuntu-Youth Synod brought together diverse Salesian groups at  Bosco Youth Centre in Johannesburg . Participants included students, parishioners, educators, and Salesian Missionaries. The event was held in conjunction with the Laudato Si Movement’s Season of Creation and the AFM Eco Ubuntu Project.

Workshops and Activities

The synod featured interactive workshops on environmental sustainability, including green skills, waste management, hydroponics, renewable energy, and sustainable cultivation. These sessions, led by university lecturers, opened the eyes of many young people to the importance of caring for the environment.

Vocation Exploration

The event also provided an opportunity for participants to explore their vocations. A workshop focused on “What is God’s dream for me?” featuring panel discussions and personal stories from various Salesian groups. This was particularly enlightening for non-Catholic attendees.

Dialogue and Unity

The “Builders of Dialogue” theme of the 2024 Salesian Mission Day, animated by Br Clarence Watts, resonated strongly throughout the synod. Participants from different cultural backgrounds engaged in meaningful conversations, fostering a sense of unity and understanding.

Cultural Exchange and Friendship

More than half of the attendees came from Lesotho and eSwatini, many of whom were visiting the Bosco Youth Centre for the first time. The sharing of cultural religious hymns during daily Mass and the use of English as a common language facilitated the creation of a strong sense of community among the participants.

Global Connections

Ms. Julia Mafereka, a delegate from Lesotho, shared her experiences from the Salesian Youth Synod in Valdocco, Italy. She described the inspiring stories and global connections formed during the event, which resonated with the AFM Salesian Youth.

The Ubuntu-Youth Synod left a lasting impression on its participants, fostering enthusiasm, togetherness, and a desire to continue learning and growing together. The event reinforced the importance of Ubuntu, the African concept of humanity and interconnectedness. Inspired by Don Bosco’s vocational dream, the young people left the synod committed to building a better future.