Young people from Nanthomba, Chezi, Mponela and Dzaleka in Dowa participated in SELL Programme self-awareness workshops on 6 June 2026, gaining practical life skills, confidence and knowledge to support personal growth, healthy relationships and responsible decision-making.
The Sharing Education and Learning for Life (SELL) Programme successfully conducted step-down workshops on the Self-Awareness Unit across these four communities in Dowa District and Dzaleka Refugee Camp. Organized under the Youth Development Unit (YDU) of Ungweru Organisation, the workshops brought together 213 participants who engaged in interactive learning activities aimed at helping them better understand themselves and build practical life skills.
The workshops created safe spaces where young people reflected on their identities, emotions, personal values and life experiences. Through discussions, storytelling, role plays and group exercises, participants explored how self-awareness influences their relationships, communication and decision-making.
Participants were encouraged to identify their strengths, aspirations and personal values through a range of reflective activities. Facilitators also introduced the Johari Window model, which helped participants understand the importance of openness, trust and feedback in personal growth and healthy relationships.
Young people participate in a self-awareness session during the SELL Programme workshop.
One of the key activities involved participants reflecting on their personal journeys using the image of a river to represent life experiences. The exercise encouraged self-acceptance and helped participants appreciate the different experiences that shape individual growth and development.
The workshops also focused on communication and behaviour through Transactional Analysis, helping participants understand how their interactions affect relationships. Discussions on sexuality and relationships provided an opportunity for young people to openly discuss issues affecting their lives and explore ways of making responsible and informed choices.
Speaking during one of the sessions, Clement, one of the facilitators, emphasized the importance of self-awareness among young people.
“Understanding yourself is the foundation for making positive decisions in life. When young people know their strengths, values and goals, they become more confident and better prepared to face challenges,” he said.
Clement, one of the facilitators, leading discussions on self-awareness and personal development.
Participants actively contributed to discussions and group activities throughout the workshops. Many described the sessions as eye-opening and appreciated the opportunity to learn in an environment where they felt safe to share their experiences.
One participant from Nanthomba said the workshop helped them understand themselves better.
“The activities made me reflect on my life and recognize my strengths. I have learned that understanding myself can help me make better decisions and improve my relationships with others,” the participant said.
The participant added that the discussions encouraged openness and helped young people learn from one another’s experiences.
Participants engage in group discussions and reflective exercises during the workshop
According to the programme team, the workshops strengthened participants’ understanding of their identities, emotions, strengths and aspirations. They also promoted confidence, resilience, communication skills and positive decision-making among young people.
The success of the workshops demonstrated the value of participatory learning approaches in youth development. Facilitators noted that while larger groups required additional support, the sessions created meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection and peer support.
As the SELL Programme continues to roll out its activities, similar workshops are expected to reach more young people, equipping them with the knowledge, confidence and life skills needed to become responsible and resilient members of their communities.
Participants pose for a group photo after the successful completion of the SELL Programme self-awareness workshop.
A total of 213 participants attended the workshops, including 124 from Nanthomba, 38 from Chezi, 37 from Mponela and 16 from Dzaleka Refugee Camp. The participation of young people from Dzaleka highlighted the programme’s commitment to ensuring that vulnerable and marginalized groups have access to learning opportunities.