Ungweru Organisation successfully concluded a three-day intensive training program for mentors of its Sharing Education and Learning for Life Programme (SELL), running from Thursday, May 29 to Saturday, May 31.
The capacity-building training, which aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of community mentors, was facilitated by Ungweru’s Youth Development Team and focused primarily on safeguarding practices. The training also addressed environmental sustainability and program objectives.
The training covered topics which are essential for effective community engagement. Safeguarding practices were at the top of the agenda, ensuring that mentors are well-equipped to create safe environments for program participants in their respective communities.
Environmental awareness also featured prominently during the training, with dedicated sessions on recycling initiatives. This is in tandem with Ungweru’s vision of supporting sustainable practices in at community level.
Additionally, the training served as a refresher, reminding participants of the aim and objectives of the SELL program. The trained also affirmed the mission and vision of Ungweru Organisation among its mentors.
Following the training, mentors are expected to return to their communities with enhanced capabilities to implement the SELL program effectively. The integration of safeguarding measures will be a key requirement as they engage with community members, ensuring participant safety and well-being remain top priorities.
The newly trained mentors will also serve as environmental ambassadors, actively promoting recycling activities within their communities and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
Isaac Nthindwa, Ungweru Organisation’s Team Leader for the Youth Development, highlighted the value of the training. “This training emphasized how essential safeguarding is in youth mentoring. Our mentors are now better equipped to build safe and inclusive environments in which young adults can thrive”, stated Isaac.
Lusungu Mwale, one of the participating mentors, shared his experience. “Learning about safeguarding reminded me of our responsibility to protect children while educating them. The recycling component also gave me practical ideas to promote sustainability in my community”, said Lusungu.
The Sharing Education and Learning for Life Programme is meant to contribute to community life in a positive way through the work of young volunteer facilitators. The mission of the program is straightforward: “Reach out to youth as agents of change, challenge them to share their experience in the making of giving choices; deepen their reverence for the Earth and construct families of justice, freedom and peace.”