February 2026 was a vibrant and inspiring month for the Ungweru Organisation Youth Development Unit (YDU). Across different communities, we continued to walk alongside young people creating spaces for learning, reflection, and transformation. From meaningful conversations on relationships to strengthening youth leadership networks, launching a major new project, and deepening understanding of justice, the month was filled with purpose and hope.
Team Retreat at Kawinduwindu
Recognizing the importance of team wellbeing and reflection, the Youth Development Unit also took time in February to reconnect internally during a retreat at the Kawinduwindu Retreat Centre from the 6th to 8th of February.
Facilitated by Fr. Leo Traynor, this experience provided space for personal reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthening relationships within the team. It was a valuable opportunity to pause, refocus, and prepare for the important work ahead.
Team Retreat at Kawinduwindu
Recognizing the importance of team wellbeing and reflection, the Youth Development Unit also took time in February to reconnect internally during a retreat at the Kawinduwindu Retreat Centre from the 6th to 8th of February.
Facilitated by Fr. Leo Traynor, this experience provided space for personal reflection, spiritual renewal, and strengthening relationships within the team. It was a valuable opportunity to pause, refocus, and prepare for the important work ahead.
Figure 1 Ungweru team with Fr. Leo at the retreat center
Valentine’s Day Relationships Workshop
On 14th February 2026, love was explored in a deeper and more meaningful way at Ungweru Hall. A total of 30 young volunteers (16 males and 14 females) gathered for an engaging and reflective workshop focused on relationships.
Facilitated by Isaac Thindwa, Taonga J. Gondwe, and SELL Mentor Samson Mabaso, the session created a safe and open space where participants could share experiences and learn from one another. Conversations centered on the importance of communication in building trust, understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationship patterns, and developing practical approaches to managing conflict in a peaceful way. Participants also reflected on the importance of consent and personal boundaries, identifying these as key areas for their personal growth.
Although the session experienced a brief delay due to rain, the enthusiasm and participation remained strong throughout the day. The workshop concluded with a shared meal and moments of reflection, leaving participants encouraged and inspired.
On 14th February 2026, love was explored in a deeper and more meaningful way at Ungweru Hall. A total of 30 young volunteers (16 males and 14 females) gathered for an engaging and reflective workshop focused on relationships.
Facilitated by Isaac Thindwa, Taonga J. Gondwe, and SELL Mentor Samson Mabaso, the session created a safe and open space where participants could share experiences and learn from one another. Conversations centered on the importance of communication in building trust, understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationship patterns, and developing practical approaches to managing conflict in a peaceful way. Participants also reflected on the importance of consent and personal boundaries, identifying these as key areas for their personal growth.
Although the session experienced a brief delay due to rain, the enthusiasm and participation remained strong throughout the day. The workshop concluded with a shared meal and moments of reflection, leaving participants encouraged and inspired.
Figure 2 Session in Progress inside Ungweru Hall.
Justice Step-Down Workshop in Msuli, Nkhata-Bay
On the same day, 14th February 2026, another impactful activity took place in Msuli Community in Nkhata-Bay a Step-Down Workshop on the Justice Unit of the SELL Programme.
This workshop formed part of ongoing efforts to equip young people with human development skills, particularly by deepening their understanding of justice-related issues affecting their communities and the country at large. The Justice Unit is symbolized by a question mark, representing the importance of inquiry and encouraging young people to continually ask why systems function the way they do. This idea guided the entire session, promoting critical reflection, accountability, and informed engagement.
The workshop brought together ten young participants and was facilitated by dedicated volunteers Canaan Mhone, Christina Phiri, and Martin Lichakala. It began with an overview of the SELL Programme before moving into deeper discussions.
While the workshop was successful, it also highlighted the need for more practical and localized case studies in future sessions to strengthen understanding even further. Overall, the experience marked an important step in nurturing young people who are thoughtful, responsible, and committed to building a just society.
On the same day, 14th February 2026, another impactful activity took place in Msuli Community in Nkhata-Bay a Step-Down Workshop on the Justice Unit of the SELL Programme.
This workshop formed part of ongoing efforts to equip young people with human development skills, particularly by deepening their understanding of justice-related issues affecting their communities and the country at large. The Justice Unit is symbolized by a question mark, representing the importance of inquiry and encouraging young people to continually ask why systems function the way they do. This idea guided the entire session, promoting critical reflection, accountability, and informed engagement.
The workshop brought together ten young participants and was facilitated by dedicated volunteers Canaan Mhone, Christina Phiri, and Martin Lichakala. It began with an overview of the SELL Programme before moving into deeper discussions.
While the workshop was successful, it also highlighted the need for more practical and localized case studies in future sessions to strengthen understanding even further. Overall, the experience marked an important step in nurturing young people who are thoughtful, responsible, and committed to building a just society.
Figure 3 Participants in group discussions
Strengthening the Northern Zone
SELL Commissioned Volunteers Gathering
From 21st to 22nd February 2026, our facilitators traveled to Rumphi to meet with commissioned SELL volunteers from across the Northern Zone, including participants from Euthini and Hewe.
This gathering served as a moment of renewal and reconnection. Through a reflective “Silent Multiplier” prayer experience, volunteers were given time to reconnect with their purpose and mission. A creative mentorship activity symbolized unity and shared responsibility, helping participants visualize how they support one another in their roles.
The group also worked together to shape their 2026 action plan, focusing on engaging church leaders, strengthening school clubs, and expanding outreach through youth rallies. The gathering concluded with a Holy Mass at St. Denis Parish, where volunteers introduced themselves to local leadership, strengthening relationships and community collaboration.
SELL Commissioned Volunteers Gathering
From 21st to 22nd February 2026, our facilitators traveled to Rumphi to meet with commissioned SELL volunteers from across the Northern Zone, including participants from Euthini and Hewe.
This gathering served as a moment of renewal and reconnection. Through a reflective “Silent Multiplier” prayer experience, volunteers were given time to reconnect with their purpose and mission. A creative mentorship activity symbolized unity and shared responsibility, helping participants visualize how they support one another in their roles.
The group also worked together to shape their 2026 action plan, focusing on engaging church leaders, strengthening school clubs, and expanding outreach through youth rallies. The gathering concluded with a Holy Mass at St. Denis Parish, where volunteers introduced themselves to local leadership, strengthening relationships and community collaboration.
Figure 4 commissioned SELL volunteers pose for a photo
Launching the INSPIRE Project
Empowering Youth in Nkhata-Bay
February also marked a major milestone with the launch of the INSPIRE Project (Inclusive SRHR Programming through Information, Rights and Empowerment) in Nkhata-Bay.
This initiative, which will run from 2026 to 2028, aims to improve access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services and information for young people. The project successfully received formal approval from the District Executive Committee and the District Youth Technical Working Group, laying a strong foundation for implementation.
Engagement with four Area Development Committees and six secondary schools, including Chifira, Kapanda, and Bandawe, helped introduce the project and identify key areas of need. In addition, visits to five youth clubs Kalowa, Zilakoma, Matete, Wilson, and Msomba revealed strong enthusiasm and readiness among young people to take part in the initiative.
The positive response from both community leaders and youth participants signals a promising journey ahead for the INSPIRE Project.
Empowering Youth in Nkhata-Bay
February also marked a major milestone with the launch of the INSPIRE Project (Inclusive SRHR Programming through Information, Rights and Empowerment) in Nkhata-Bay.
This initiative, which will run from 2026 to 2028, aims to improve access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services and information for young people. The project successfully received formal approval from the District Executive Committee and the District Youth Technical Working Group, laying a strong foundation for implementation.
Engagement with four Area Development Committees and six secondary schools, including Chifira, Kapanda, and Bandawe, helped introduce the project and identify key areas of need. In addition, visits to five youth clubs Kalowa, Zilakoma, Matete, Wilson, and Msomba revealed strong enthusiasm and readiness among young people to take part in the initiative.
The positive response from both community leaders and youth participants signals a promising journey ahead for the INSPIRE Project.
Figure 5 INSPIRE project presentation at Nkhata-Bay District Youth Technical Working Group
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on February, we are reminded that meaningful change begins with empowered young people who are given space to learn, question, and grow.
These achievements were made possible through the continued support of our partners, the commitment of local leaders, and the energy and openness of the young people we serve. We remain dedicated to promoting justice, nurturing leadership, and supporting holistic development across Malawi.
💚 Together, we continue to inspire hope and build a brighter future.
As we reflect on February, we are reminded that meaningful change begins with empowered young people who are given space to learn, question, and grow.
These achievements were made possible through the continued support of our partners, the commitment of local leaders, and the energy and openness of the young people we serve. We remain dedicated to promoting justice, nurturing leadership, and supporting holistic development across Malawi.
💚 Together, we continue to inspire hope and build a brighter future.
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