Media Release
Udupi, Jul 4: The Young Students Movement (YSM) of the Udupi diocese successfully conducted its District Central Council election, annual general body meeting, and training programme on July 3 at Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Kakkunje. Alani Danthy of Don Bosco School, Shirva was elected as president of YSM Diocese of Udupi.
This was followed by leadership and animator training sessions. Fr Ashwin Cardoza, Karnataka Regional Youth director, guided the animators through an enriching session. Anson Nazareth, National YCS/YSM president, and Fr Steven Fernandes, Diocesan Youth director, empowered the YSM student leaders through interactive and inspiring sessions.
The annual general body meeting, chaired by Fr Steven Fernandes, marked an important milestone with the election of the new District Central Council. The newly appointed council comprises a dynamic and talented team of young leaders and mentors. Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo was elected as the chairman, while Fr Steven Fernandes continues to guide the council as the director. Prince Danthy takes on the role of animator, and Alani Danthy from Don Bosco School, Shirva, has been chosen as the president. Supporting her is vice president Veeksha R Acharya from St Lawrence School, Moodubelle. The role of secretary will be fulfilled by Irol Geena D’Souza from Mount Rosary School, Santhekatte, with Drishya Suvarna from Milagres School, Kallianpur serving as the joint secretary. Managing as treasurer is Poorvi V Poojari from St Francis Xavier School, Udyavar. PRO responsibilities will be handled by Nishcay N Kumar from Christ School, Manipal.
Additionally, the council includes ex-officio members Jiya Cutinho, Flavian Noronha representing the regional level, and Anson Nazareth, the National YSM president.
Outgoing leaders Sanvi (president, YSM) and Yajna from Milagres English Medium School, Kallianpur, shared their heartfelt experiences of their YSM journey, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Gratitude was expressed to the outgoing council for their dedicated service. Special thanks and honour were given to Sandra Lobo, who served as an animator with commitment for the past two years.
Richard, teacher at Milagres High School and former YSM animator, was the chief guest for the handing-over ceremony. His inspiring words motivated the gathering and acknowledged the efforts of the youth. A total of 220 participants, including student leaders and animators, were present, making the event a memorable and impactful success.
The programme began with a warm welcome address by Bhagyashree from Nirmala Kannada Medium School, Brahmavar. The programmed concluded with a vote of thanks by Pooja from St Francis Xavier School, Udyavar, and the singing of the YSM Anthem. The event began with a meaningful interreligious prayer service led by students of St Lawrence English Medium School, Moodubelle, symbolizing unity and respect for all faiths. The handing-over ceremony that followed was smoothly compered by Prithvi from Trinity School, Perampalli.