Understanding yourself is the first step towards making better choices in life. That was the key message as the Sharing Education and Learning for Life (SELL) Programme brought together young people from Lusangazi and Mzimba Boma (Utatu-Utuwa) for engaging self-awareness workshops that inspired personal growth, confidence, and responsible living.
Young people from the two communities gathered on 27 June 2026 to participate in step-down workshops under the Self-Awareness Unit of the SELL Programme, implemented by the Youth Development Unit (YDU) of Ungweru Organization in partnership with Mzuzu Diocese. The workshops equipped participants with practical life skills while creating a safe space for learning, reflection, and meaningful conversations.
Through group discussions, storytelling, role plays, personal reflection, and teamwork, participants explored important topics such as identity, emotions, communication, relationships, personal values, and responsible decision-making. The sessions encouraged every participant to reflect on who they are, appreciate their strengths, and understand how their experiences shape their future.
Participants actively engage in a group discussion during the Self-Awareness workshop, sharing ideas and learning from one another.
A total of 34 young people attended the workshops, with 24 participants from Lusangazi and 10 from Mzimba Boma (Utatu-Utuwa). The Lusangazi sessions were facilitated by Thom, Jonathan, Grace, Monalisa, and Paul, while Isaac Maseko and Yolanda Lukhere led the sessions in Mzimba Boma.
The workshops were characterised by lively participation, honest discussions, and mutual encouragement. Activities such as the Personal History exercise and Johari’s Window gave participants the opportunity to reflect on their life journeys, build trust with one another, and understand the importance of self-awareness in everyday life.
Participants reflect on their personal journeys during the Personal History activity, one of the interactive sessions of the workshop.
Yolanda Lukhere described the workshop as an important platform for empowering young people beyond the classroom.
“Self-awareness helps young people discover their strengths and understand that every experience, whether good or difficult, can help shape a better future,” she said.
Yolanda, one of the facilitators, leads a session on self-awareness, encouraging participants to recognise their strengths and build confidence for the future.
The workshops were successfully completed through strong teamwork and commitment from facilitators and local volunteers. Their collaboration demonstrated the growing ownership of the SELL Programme within the communities.
Facilitators and participants share smiles after completing the Self-Awareness workshop, celebrating a successful day of learning and personal growth.
The workshops concluded with renewed motivation among participants to apply the knowledge gained in their families, schools, churches, and communities. Organisers believe that continued mentoring and follow-up activities will help reinforce these lessons and support young people as they grow into responsible, confident, and active citizens.
As the SELL Programme continues reaching more communities across Malawi, these workshops remain a powerful reminder that lasting change begins with understanding oneself. By investing in self-awareness today, the programme is helping build a generation of young people equipped with the confidence, values, and life skills needed to create stronger and more resilient communities tomorrow.