We are thrilled to reflect on the remarkable experience of our student delegates from the IMCS Asia Pacific region at the Empowerment Summit and International Council of IMCS Pax Romana, held from September 12-15, 2024, in La Roche-sur-Foron, France. This gathering brought together a diverse group of over 100 youth leaders, chaplains, and students from every corner of the world to engage in meaningful dialogue and develop strategies for positive social change. The event, which forms part of IMCS Pax Romana’s centennial celebrations, provided an incredible platform for youth from different cultures and backgrounds to unite around common goals: empowering students, advocating for human rights, promoting peace, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and social justice. Delegates explored topics such as youth leadership, governance, project management, and strategic advocacy, all within the framework of creating a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future. Throughout the summit, participants engaged in a variety of sessions designed to foster learning, reflection, and collaboration.
These sessions included discussions on IMCS leadership virtues, focusing on the need for young leaders to be spiritually awake, socially engaged, ecologically sensitive, and globally connected. The delegates shared their personal experiences, innovative ideas, and strategies for tackling the most pressing issues of our time. Pope Francis’ message to the summit, delivered as part of the centennial celebration, served as a guiding inspiration: “I encourage you to continue to be agents of social change, steadfast in your efforts to help build a more inclusive, harmonious, and sustainable world. Be ever ready to give the best of yourselves in meeting the challenges that lie ahead, attentive to the signs of the times and committed to the service of the poor, the vulnerable, and the underprivileged.” These words resonated deeply with all participants, reinforcing the mission of IMCS Pax Romana to cultivate student leaders who are committed to solidarity, justice, and peacebuilding.
In addition to these reflective and visionary discussions, the summit included practical workshops on project management, campaign planning, and youth advocacy, equipping participants with concrete skills to take back to their local communities. Special focus was given to upcoming initiatives such as the Pax Jubilee Campaign, which aims to mobilize students and youth worldwide for justice and peace, and the World Youth Day 2025-2027, which will be a pivotal moment for young Catholics to unite around shared values and global action.
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