The Youth Development Unit (YDU) of Ungweru Organisation, which oversees the SELL Programme, has wrapped up a highly productive and impactful February in the year 2025. The month was marked by a series of retreats, workshops, and training sessions aimed at fostering personal growth, community engagement, and youth empowerment across various communities in Malawi.
YDU Resource Team Retreat: Renewal and Reflection
From February 5th to 9th, the YDU Resource Team held a retreat at Kawinduwindu Retreat Center in Nkhata-Bay. The retreat provided a quiet space for reflection, spiritual growth, and team bonding. According to the team, the retreat was a time to renew their strength and refocus their efforts on making a greater impact through the SELL Programme. The retreat concluded with a sense of unity and purpose, as the team posed for a group photo in the chapel after prayers.
Valentine’s Day Workshop: Exploring Relationships
On February 14th, the YDU Team organized a pilot workshop titled “Valentine’s Day: Exploring Relationships” at the Ungweru Organisation Hall in Mzuzu. The event brought together students from Mzuzu University, University of Livingstonia, Kamuzu College of Health Sciences, SELL volunteers, and young adults from nearby communities. Through engaging activities such as photo language and role plays, participants explored themes of communication, boundaries, and healthy versus unhealthy relationships. The workshop, which marked the beginning of the Relationships Deepening Unit, received constructive feedback from attendees, who praised its interactive and thought-provoking approach.
Justice Unit Stepdown Workshops: Empowering Communities
On February 15th, the YDU Resource Team, alongside SELL volunteers and interns, facilitated “Justice” workshops in the Katoto community and at the Ungweru Organisation Hall in Mzuzu. Facilitators Isaac, Patricia, Deborah, Moses, and Elizabeth led the sessions, which focused on promoting justice and fairness within communities. The workshops were well-received, with participants expressing gratitude for the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and activities.
Wisdom of Traditions Training: Celebrating Cultural Heritage
From February 20th to 23rd, the YDU Team conducted a training session on the “Wisdom of Traditions” module of the SELL Programme with Anglican volunteers. The training aimed to deepen participants’ understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage while enhancing critical thinking, self-awareness, and community engagement. The sessions created a safe space for youth to share and learn from each other’s traditions, fostering a sense of unity and pride in their cultural identities.
Looking Ahead
The YDU Team expressed optimism about the impact of February’s activities, noting that the retreat, workshops, and trainings have equipped both the team and participants with valuable skills and insights. As the SELL Programme continues to grow, the YDU remains committed to empowering youth and communities through innovative and impactful initiatives.