Report of SMA Youth Camp, Kagoro 2024
SMA Youths Nigeria North were excited to have their annual youth camp with the theme: ” Empowered Minds: Focusing on Mental Wellness, Self-Care, and Stress Management in Youths “. The camp was held at SMA Formation House in Kagoro, Kaduna State from Thursday December 19th to Monday morning 23rd December 2024.
This camp is a much-needed platform for youths to reflect, rejuvenate and thrive in today’s fast-paced and highly competitive world. It is a gathering of young minds, guided by experienced and inspiring leaders. The 2024 camp allowed participants to explore strategies for maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit.
The camp started with an opening remark by Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogungbe, SMA. Fr. Ogungbe was followed by Mr. Emmanuel Kalat Akaahs, Regional Coordinator of the Youths. Both leaders are highly respected in the community and have a wealth of knowledge to share with the youths.
Day 2 was packed with informative talks by Rev. Fr. Julius Moses Eyazzo of the diocese of Kaffanchan and Mr. Bartholomew Ugbong. Both interveners focused on the topic of mental wellness, self-care, and stress management. Their presentations were followed by group discussions, where participants engaged in thought-provoking conversations and shared their thoughts and experiences on the topics.
On Day 3, the youths had the opportunity to explore the beautiful sites of Kagoro. They were guided by Mr. Andrew Zamani. Later in the day, there was an exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, meditation, and confession by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Agbo. Fr Agbo a priest of the Archdiocese of Kaduna. This session provided a space for introspection and spiritual growth.
Day 4 was cultural Sunday. On this day, participants at the camp had a Thanksgiving celebration. It is a customary practice of the Youths. There was also skill acquisition in the afternoon. It was facilitated by one of the youths. The skill acquisition was on bead making.
In the evening, there was a Christmas carol presentation by each group. Individual performances were also encouraged. Lastly, the camp participants were treated to a barbecue with refreshment.
Another important activity of the day was the election of new Regional Executives: Mr. Joshua Ifeanyin Nwaeze was elected coordinator; Grace Aminu was elected vice coordinator. Matthias James is the new secretary; Onumza Godwin the vice secretary; Choji Eucharia doubles as the financial and treasurer. Other elected officers are John Gyang as the P.R.O. and Gyang Florence as the Director of socials. These are to lead the Youths in their future endeavors in the next 4 years.
Day 5, being the final day of the camp, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogungbe celebrated the concluding Mass.
In summary, it can be said that the SMA Youths Camp 2024 in Kagoro enabled participants to be conscious of the importance of mental wellness and self-care in today’s fast-paced and stressful world. The camp also equipped participants with the necessary tools and knowledge to take care of themselves in all aspects of their lives.