Steephan Kayyar
Daijiworld Media Network - Kasargod
Kasargod, Aug 17: The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) Kasaragod Vicariate, in collaboration with CKYM Kayyar, organised Radiant 2026, a vibrant youth gathering under the theme “Rooted Locally, Shining Globally”, on August 16 at the Don Bosco Auditorium, Christ the King Church, Kayyar.
Around 250 young people from various ICYM units across the Kasaragod Vicariate participated in the programme, which provided a platform to celebrate faith, leadership, talents, culture and fellowship.
The programme began with an inauguration ceremony featuring a symbolic activity in which representatives of the participating units attached leaves to a tree. The activity represented unity, growth and the importance of remaining rooted in one’s community and values while aspiring to achieve greater heights.
The event was attended by Fr Vishal Melwin Monis, director of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate, animators Sr Severine D’Cunha and Joel Lancy Crasta; Josweer D’Souza, parish council secretary of Christ the King Church, Kayyar; and Vincent D’Souza, coordinator of Commissions.
Following the inauguration, the ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate executive committee led the participants in action songs and games, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and fellowship.
'Voices That Matter' panel discussion
A major attraction of the programme was the panel discussion “Voices That Matter”, moderated by animator Joel Lancy Crasta. The panel comprised Santhosh D Costa, CA Nerissa Noronha, Jaison Crasta and Melvin Fernandes.
The discussion provided the youth with an opportunity to hear diverse perspectives and reflect on social responsibility, community development and the role of young people in society.
Holy Mass for youth
The spiritual highlight of the programme was the holy Mass for Youth, celebrated by Fr Francis Crasta, parish priest of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Vorkady.
The holy Mass offered the participants an opportunity to strengthen their faith and reflect on their responsibilities as young members of the Church and society.
After the Holy Mass, followed by action songs and games led by the ICYM executive members.
A vibrant cultural programme was also organised, with various ICYM units showcasing their talents through music, dance and other creative performances. The programme reflected the rich cultural identity and diverse talents of the youth of the Kasaragod Vicariate.
Valedictory programme
The valedictory programme brought together clergy, elected representatives, parish representatives, youth leaders and other dignitaries.
Fr Harold Mascarenhas, vicar vara of Kasaragod Vicariate, and MLA A K M Ashraf, Manjeshwar Constituency, were among the dignitaries present. Fr. Praveen D’Souza, director of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, and Fr Vishal Melwin Monis, director of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate, attended as guests of honour.
Also present were Princy Maria D’Souza, Member of Paivalike Grama Panchayath, Christon Joshua Menezes, president of ICYM Mangalore Diocese, Vijay Ashwin Cardoza, representative of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate; Sr Severine D’Cunha and Joel Lancy Crasta, animators; Prajwal Gladson D’Souza, president of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate; Linda Magdalene D’Souza, Secretary of ICYM Kasaragod Vicariate, Loy Kiran D’Souza, president of CKYM Kayyar; and Jyothi Priya D’Souza, secretary of CKYM Kayyar.
Prajwal Gladson D’Souza delivered the welcome address.
One of the key highlights of the valedictory programme was the presentation of a Memorandum of Development of Kasaragod to MLA A K M Ashraf. The memorandum reflected the aspirations of the youth and highlighted the need for development and progress in Kasaragod.
The dignitaries encouraged the youth to take greater responsibility in society, develop their talents, remain rooted in their values and contribute positively to the development of their communities.
St Joseph Vaz Awards
A special St Joseph Vaz Award Ceremony was held as part of Radiant 2026. Young achievers who had made notable accomplishments in sports, academics, entrepreneurship and business were recognised and honoured.
The award ceremony was conducted by Linda D’Souza, recognising the dedication, excellence and determination of young achievers.
The valedictory programme was compered by Vinisha Crasta, while Loy Kiran D’Souza, president of CKYM Kayyar, delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed gratitude to the clergy, dignitaries, organisers, volunteers and participating ICYM units for their contributions to the success of Radiant 2026.
The festival concluded with an energetic DJ performance, with the youth celebrating together through music, dance and fellowship.
Radiant 2026 brought together around 250 young people in a celebration of faith, leadership, talent, culture and unity, inspiring them to remain connected to their roots while confidently stepping into the future.