Programmes and Activities in Moramanga Branch, Madagascar.

The reason I joined the Young Advocates for Change program was to be part of making history in youth development in any way possible within the YMCA movement. Yes, with God’s grace I am in Madagascar in Moramanga branch teaching and implementing other youth development programmes. Madagascar has two official languages which are Malagasy and French. Schools, Non-Governmental organisations and other institutions need people who can teach English to expand their networks and improve their communication skills since English is the most spoken language worldwide. I am very happy to be part of this initiative which started few years ago. The Young Advocates for Change program is very exciting because it takes you out of your comfort zone and discover your talents you were not aware of like teaching. 

At the moment I teach English with my Zimbabwean partner in Lycée RV, FJKM Moramanga, ESPA paramedic school, ORTALMA hotel and at YMCA. Teaching English in these institutions has been a pleasant experience. It is a very fulfilling feeling to enter the class and the students stand up and greet you the way they greet their teachers. This has motivated me to consider a teaching career at some time in my life.

We have also started the Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights program and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Youth. These two programs tackle issues and challenges ranging from sexual rights, sexual health and behaviours that youth need to adopt in order to be productive in their communities.

It has been an empowering journey so far, full of few challenges and beautiful moments to be cherished. It’s four months down the line and it’ still going down… Hopefully, with the few weeks left we will be able to do more activities. 

Written by Phumelele Hadebe