By Fabrice Djimadoum
The International Association of Youths and Students for Peace (IAYSP) Zambia, in collaboration with UPF Zambia, hosted a one-day Youth Leadership and Character Education seminar on December 12, 2024, at the Peace Embassy in Lusaka. Thirty-six participants attended the seminar, which was themed “Rebranding IAYSP for a Peaceful Zambia.”
The seminar aimed to revitalize and empower the IAYSP Zambia executive committee members for the year 2025. Rev. Rudolf Faerber, Secretary General of UPF Zambia, encouraged the youth to take responsibility and urged them to become proactive leaders.
The seminar featured three distinguished speakers. Mr. Nicholas Chisha, Coordinator of Character Programs in Ndola, delivered the first lecture via Zoom. Despite the virtual format, Mr. Chisha shared valuable strategies and tips on managing activities, drawing from his extensive experience in the field.
The second speaker, Mr. Kouame Bohoussou Dieudonne, President of the Tongil Moodo Federation of Zambia, represented IAYSP Africa Regional President, Mrs. Mica Amanlaman Camara. He provided an introduction to IAYSP, including its vision, mission, objectives, and an overview of character education.
Mr. Soondo Mutewa, IAYSP National President, shared the background of IAYSP activities in Zambia, highlighting effective strategies from the past and those that could work in the future. He also recounted his personal experience of how IAYSP has positively impacted his life, particularly in public speaking.
After the break, Mr. Kouame Bohoussou Dieudonne presented on Tongil Moodo (TIMD) Martial Arts, emphasizing its role in promoting peace and character development.
The audience remained engaged throughout the presentations, expressing gratitude to the speakers. During the Q&A session, participants sought guidance on fully reviving IAYSP in light of the current situation. Despite their concerns, the youth demonstrated enthusiasm for participating in upcoming activities, with several expressing interest in joining TIMD.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Bongani Gina, Sub-Region South IAYSP Director, urged participants to take proactive actions. Mr. Fabrice Djimadoum, Secretary General of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) Zambia, encouraged the young people to take ownership and lead the initiative.
Moving forward, the focus will be on increasing youth participation and engagement in our activities, building on their enthusiasm and interest in getting involved. TIMD welcomes individuals who wish to contribute to peace and character development through martial arts.
its fantastic