From 16 to 19 April 2026, Ungweru Organisation, with support from Trocaire, successfully conducted a transformative Sharing Education and Learning for Life (SELL) Programme training at Jenda under the Southern zone of the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu.
The training brought together 14 young adults from Nkhamenya, Chizani, Bowe, Katete, Edingeni, and Mzimba Boma, all united by a shared desire to create positive change in their communities.
Designed as a foundational training, the initiative focused on equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become facilitators and community leaders. Through this process, participants were prepared not just to learn, but to guide others in meaningful dialogue around justice, relationships, and responsible decision-making.
Unlike traditional classroom approaches, the training embraced the SELL spiral learning methodology, which emphasises reflection, participation, and real-life application. Through group discussions, storytelling, role plays, and personal reflection exercises, participants actively engaged with the content and with each other. This participatory approach created a safe and open environment where everyone felt heard and valued.
Participants engage in a group discussion during self-awareness session
Speaking during the training, facilitator Isaac Thindwa highlighted the importance of shifting mindsets around leadership. “Facilitation is not about standing in front and giving answers,” he said. “It is about creating space for others to think, share, and grow. When young people understand this, they begin to see themselves as leaders who serve their communities.”
Isaac Thindwa facilitating a self-awareness session
Participants explored key themes such as self-awareness, relationships, communication, and social responsibility. These sessions encouraged them to reflect on their personal experiences and better understand how their actions impact others. Creative methods like drama, songs, and group presentations further strengthened their confidence and teamwork.
Patricia Nyirenda, also part of the Ungweru Resource Team, emphasized the deeper purpose of the programme. “SELL is about helping young people connect their lives to the bigger picture,” she explained. “When they understand that their choices affect their community and the environment, they begin to act more responsibly and with purpose.”
Patricia Nyirenda acknowledging the value of SELL programme in helping young people connect their choices to the community and the environment
The training was further enriched by the support of experienced commissioned SELL facilitators, Clement Munthali and Paul Chunda, whose mentorship helped bridge theory and real-life community practice.
For many participants, the experience was both eye-opening and empowering. Patrick, one of the participants shared, “This training has changed how I see myself. I now understand that I can help others learn and grow, not by teaching them what to think, but by helping them discover it for themselves.”
Patrick, one of the participants, appreciating how the training changed his self-perception and approach to helping others grow
Participants demonstrated increased confidence, a deeper understanding of SELL values, and a strong commitment to becoming facilitators in their communities. They left Jenda inspired and ready to take on their roles as agents of change.
As they return to their respective communities, these young leaders carry with them not just knowledge, but a renewed sense of purpose. With continued mentorship from the Ungweru Resource Team, they are set to begin facilitating sessions that will foster personal growth, strengthen communities, and promote lasting social transformation.