The 8th edition of the DIAFERENCE Youth Convention, organized by the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Central Council Diocese of Mangalore, unfolded with grandeur and enthusiasm on February 11, 2024, at Loyola Hall, St. Aloysius Pre-University College, Mangalore. Under the captivating theme “Innovate, Elevate, Celebrate,” the event aimed to inspire and empower youth to embrace innovation, strive for excellence, and celebrate their achievements.
The event commenced with a solemn Holy Eucharist Mass led by Rev. Fr. Kenneth Crasta and Rev. Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Director of ICYM Diocese of Mangalore, with the choir led by the Bantwal Deanery youth.
The ceremonial procession marked the official inauguration, with DEXCO and Central Council Members, accompanied by 12 Deanery Presidents, marching to the stage under the “DIAFERENCE” Logo Flag, symbolizing unity and purpose. Esteemed dignitaries including Rev. Fr. Santhosh Rodrigues, President of the Program,Mr. Ronald D’Souza CEO of LEKSA Lighting Pvt. Ltd, Chief Guest,Miss Sabitha Monis Student Welfare Officer at Alvas Education Foundation, Guest of honour,Rev Fr. Ashwin Lohith Cardoza, Mr. Mithesh D’Souza, and Wilma Viola Lobo graced the stage for the inaugural ceremony.
The keynote address delivered by Rev. Father Ashwin Cardoza, the Director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese. He expressed gratitude to the youth participants for their valuable contributions to the success of Diaference 2024. He also acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the DEXCO and Council members, emphasizing their pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. Additionally, he congratulated the achievers of ICYM, recognizing their outstanding accomplishments across various fields.
He underscored the significance of Diaference 2024 in providing a platform for youth to explore and harness their talents in both business and spirituality. The event served as a catalyst for budding entrepreneurs, offering them opportunities to showcase their ventures and connect with like-minded individuals. Furthermore, it provided a nurturing environment for aspiring business owners, offering valuable insights and resources to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.
The convention recognized exemplary youths and achievers across various domains, including Ms. Asha, Ms. Bianca, Mr. Joel, Mr. Milton, Mr. Vijoy, and Mr. Wayne. Special accolades were also bestowed upon Ms. Sabitha Monis and Mr. Ronald Dsouza for their remarkable achievements.
Mr. Ronald Dsouza delivered a compelling discourse on resilience and the pivotal role of faith in navigating through failure. His insights shed light on the profound significance of these attributes in the corporate landscape.
Ms. Sabitha Monis, a remarkable individual, has defied all odds and emerged victorious in the face of adversity. Born without hands but possessing a strong will and determination, she has demonstrated the transformative power of education in her life.
Further, Ms. Viola Lewis Coordinator Karnataka, MIJARC Asia and Mr. Sanjay Orwin Dsouza President ICYM Karnataka Region were honoured for their exemplary leadership. Thirteen resource persons led sessions on diverse topics, empowering attendees with knowledge and insights.
Fr. Santhosh Rodrigues shed light on the diverse array of opportunities and initiatives offered by ICYM, ranging from skill-building workshops to community service projects. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering leadership qualities and instilling values of compassion, integrity, and social responsibility among its members.
Thirteen sessions led by resource persons covered diverse topics, ranging from entrepreneurship and wealth creation to spirituality and youth empowerment.
The topics were:
- Difficulties, Limitations of a startup and for its Founder by Mr. Vijoy Ashwin Cardoza
- Creating Wealth by Ms. Sapna Shenoy.
- Network is Net worth Mr. Peter Antony Pinto
- Monetizing AI in Today’s Digital Landscape by Mr. Leo Victor Zalki.
- How to become a content writer by Mr. Rayan Magneto.
- Need of Healthy Diet by Ms. Florida Jenifer Almeda
- Monetizing your communication skill by Mr Harsha Raj Gatty
- Overcome your stage fear by Dr Mona Mendonca
- Liturgy and Youth by Rev.Fr Vijay Machado
- The need of spirituality in youth by Ms. Viola Lewis
- Witnessing Christ by Rev Fr Stany Pinto
- Laws and Youth by Adv. Nishith L Lobo
- Need of marriage in Church by Rev Fr Naveen Pinto.
Following the sessions, attendees enjoyed a sumptuous lunch and engaging cultural performances by ICYM Deaneries. ICYM Central Council honoured old ICYM members and extending warm hospitality to distinguished guests from the Udupi Diocese.
Prizes were awarded for the Reels competition, recognizing outstanding contributions from various units and deaneries. The event concluded with a prayer and the singing of the ICYM Mangalore Diocese theme song, followed by a group photo and celebratory dance.
Certainly! The event featured stalls set up by different organizations to promote their businesses, providing attendees with opportunities for networking and learning about various products and services.
Special thanks were extended to sponsors and donors for their invaluable support in making the event a success. The event’s main sponsors were Mr. Herick Saldanha Sambrahm Events, Mr. Micheal D’Souza and family, Catholic Matri.com, MCC Bank, Mr. Errol Samuel. The inaugural ceremony was skilfully hosted by Ms. Renesha Rodrigues.
In conclusion, the 8th DIAFERENCE Youth Convention was a resounding success, reaffirming ICYM’s commitment to nurturing youth leadership and fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
–Long Live ICYM Mangalore Diocese-
