Over 400 young people from Youth Against AIDS (YAA) clubs came together to share and experience the best practices of enriching their lives and that of others at a Young People Making a Difference (YPMD) Expo held at St Peters Kubatana recently.

More than twelve schools, in and around Harare, committed to this engagement organized by the Integral Youth Development (IYD) under the theme ‘Be Switched On.’

The Expo, held on World AIDS Day, inspired the youths in YAA movements to be switched on. It focused on four strategic pillars of Ecology, Social Justice, Health and Good leadership.

Speaking during the Expo, Integral Youth Development Coordinator, Mr. Time Baluwa said young people ought to be aware of their surroundings and be more responsible in their lifestyle.

“It’s high time for young people to start taking responsibility for the things they normally take for granted such as their health and leadership responsibilities,” he said.

“It’s our time as young people.  There is an increasing inherent power within young people to do works of reaching out to other young people. Works of building towards a just world.”

In a spirited session, Br Ngonidzashe Edward SJ challenged young people to live a life with a purpose, to  make a difference and to leave a mark in other people’s lives.

Rutendo Mamvura a Lower Six student from Girls High School encouraged students to confident about themselves and get empowered. She said young people, especially those involved in YAA movements have the power to reach out to a lot of people and that should be harnessed.

Tapiwa Tichiwangana, YAA Visitation Makumbi Club President, said young people should always be aware of what is happening around them and take action.

Speaking on behalf of United Nations Children’s Fund Zimbabwe, Mr Freeman Asima praised the work done by YAA clubs in various schools. He also said UNICEF desire to work together with YAA groups especially in areas of children’s education, child protection as well as social protection.

The colorful exhibitions presented other young people and guests with evidence of what the groups are committed to. They showed herbs from students’ herbal gardens, visuals from the conducted environmental management initiatives and reports and images of awareness campaigns conducted by groups and relevant stakeholders.

Youth Against AIDS movements are supported by the Jesuit Province under the Integral Youth Development project. The clubs are present in more than 30 schools including 5 Primary schools.

Fore more visit: www.iydzim.org

Source: Jesuits Zimbabwe Mozambique