India: Northeast youth directors gather for 2025 strategic meet

The North East Diocesan Youth Directors' Meet 2025 took place on May 28 and 29 at the Bethel MSMHC Prayer Centre in Barapani in the northeastern Indian state of Meghalaya.
As many as 27 participants from across the Northeast region attended it.
The event was graced by key figures in youth ministry, including Fr. Chetan Machado, National Youth Director and Executive Secretary of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) - Commission for Youth; Fr. John Barman MSFS, Regional Youth Director and Associate Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Youth; Sr. Wansuk Lyngdoh MSMHC, Regional Youth Lady Animator; Ms. Daisy Zomuankimi, Regional Youth Secretary; Jaunt P. Bora, Regional Youth Treasurer; Onnesimos Shangdiar, Regional Youth Editor (ICYM NE); Pyrkhat Thabah, REXCO Member; and Miss Hulang Magdelene Anal, NEXCO Member. Also in attendance were diocesan youth directors (DYDs), assistant directors (ADYDs), and diocesan youth lady animators (DYLAs).
The meeting began with a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Barman, followed by an inaugural ceremony hosted by Ms. Daisy and Mr. Jaunt. Participants were warmly welcomed with a vibrant choir and dance performance by the aspirants of Grace Villa MSMHC.
On the second day, Fr. Machado celebrated Holy Mass and led insightful sessions on synodality, youth, and media.
He outlined the vision and mission of the Youth Commission and reflected on the 36th Plenary Assembly, addressing the opportunities and challenges media presents in youth ministry.
Fr. Barman presented an orientation on the regional strategic plan, emphasizing the commission’s direction and functionality. Directors also deliberated on the upcoming 5th Regional Youth Convention (RYC), exchanging valuable insights and decisions.
Ms. Magdelene provided updates on the National Youth Convention (NYC) and ongoing fundraising efforts.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of the Youth Empowerment Project, jointly initiated by Mr. Onnesimos Shangdiar and Fr. Barman, aimed at equipping young people with essential skills and opportunities.
The two-day meet concluded on a high note, strengthening unity, collaboration, and renewed dedication to empowering the youth across northeast India.
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