THE Gizo Baha’i Junior Youth Empowerment Programme (JYEP) successfully completed a study camp last weekend.
The programme brought young members who are dedicated to personal development and community service.
The camp was held at Gizo Jah Mountain Baha’i Centre.
It was aimed at fostering unity, moral education and leadership skills among the participants.
The camp also allowed the youth to undergo Breezes of Confirmation Book Study and Facilitators from the local Baha’i community guided the sessions, which emphasized themes such as service to others, self-reflection, and positive decision-making.
Over the course of the event, the participants from Gizo, Mile 3, Niumana and Titiana engaged in group discussions, interactive workshops and collaborative activities designed to build confidence and a sense of social responsibility.
Participants also enjoyed outdoor activities that encouraged teamwork and physical wellness.
One of the highlights was the final evening’s cultural show where the youth presented songs, skits and creative expressions inspired by their learning experiences during the campout.
JYEP Animator Vahiya expressed satisfaction with the event’s outcomes, noting the positive feedback from both participants and parents
Animator Vahiya highlighted the importance of empowering young people through such programmes to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
He told Solomon Star in an interview that the purpose of the JYEP is to develop moral structures to help young people develop the moral structures to guide their actions and decisions as they mature.
“It will also build literacy and the power of expression, allow for exploration of the concept of confirmation: Exploration of the idea that God helps and assists when people strive to achieve noble goals and to help develop social skills, comprehension and spiritual qualities,” he added.
Mr Vahiya said supplemental activities for Breezes of Confirmation include skits, art projects, service projects, discussions, songs and memorizing Bahá’í quotes.
According to Bahai Faith, the JYSEP is a learning and social experience for kids from 11 to15 years of age from around the world.
With the help of a trained “animator” or tutor, junior youth explore universal values and Bahá’í teachings, help serve their communities and have fun.
Breezes of Confirmation (by DL Publicaciones) are one textbook used in the programme.
The Universal House of Justice, the worldwide guiding council of the Bahá’í Faith, states that JYSEP is effective in “enhancing the power of expression and the quality of spiritual perception within its participants and in assisting them to develop the capabilities necessary for a life of meaningful service to their communities.”
The Gizo Baha’i community plans to hold similar events in the future, continuing their commitment to youth development and moral education.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
