In Meghalaya, where the youth population significantly exceeds the national average, young people face challenges such as limited access to quality education, high dropout rates, unemployment, substance abuse, and gender-based discrimination. In response, North East Network (NEN) initiated the first Youth Collective from Meghalaya in Laitkseh, West Khasi Hills. This group of 21 young individuals, aged 16 to 20 years, serves as a beacon of hope, aiming to tackle issues like the negative impacts of technology on children and substance abuse and promote the need for sports and recreational activities.
To empower these youths, NEN organized a comprehensive capacity-building programme, designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to address challenges in their communities. The programme featured four impactful sessions: “Understanding Gender,” “Rights and Entitlements,” “Transformational Leadership,” and “Basic Photography: Societal Issues and How to Use Art and Photography to Capture Them.” These sessions were led by experts Ivyreen Warjri, Assistant Director at MATI; Iaimanda Ryngksai, State Coordinator at NEN; psychologist Faustinarity Nongrum; and photographer and Greenhub Alumni, Goldenstar Thongni. Held at the Pastoral Centre in Cleve Colony, Shillong, the sessions aimed to introduce new perspectives, build essential skills, and ignite a passion for leadership.
The 12 participating youths enthusiastically engaged in the sessions. The “Transformational Leadership” session had a particularly profound impact, as participants gained a deeper understanding of leadership principles applicable to their daily lives. The “Rights and Entitlements” session was both practical and empowering, equipping the youths with essential knowledge about their rights and how to leverage available opportunities. The discussion on “Understanding Gender” opened new perspectives, fostering a deeper awareness of gendered realities within their community. Finally, the “Basic Photography” session, in preparation for World Youth Day on August 12, 2024, provided crucial photography skills, with Goldenstar Thongni’s rural background resonating deeply with the participants.
The Capacity Building programme for the Youth Collective of Laitkseh marks a significant step towards empowering the next generation of leaders. This initiative reflects NEN’s commitment to nurturing youth potential, ensuring they are prepared to face today’s challenges and lead the way toward a brighter, more equitable future.
