The IYCS National Leaders Meeting 2025 was held on 16th August 2025 on the Zoom platform, commencing at 02:00 PM Paris Time. The meeting was organized by the International Young Catholic Students (IYCS) International Secretariat and brought together national leaders, regional coordinators, chaplains, and members from across the globe. This important gathering served as a platform to reflect, share, and strengthen the mission of YCS worldwide. The meeting centered on the themes of ethical leadership, social action, organizational renewal, and the role of students in shaping a just and sustainable future.

The session was moderated by Ms. Edomobi Mariaconsolata Chinasa, IYCS Africa Coordinator, who guided the flow of discussions and ensured active engagement from all participants.

The meeting began with introductory remarks and a warm welcome delivered by Ms. María Teresa Gutiérrez Montero, JECI–MIEC Europe Coordinator. She highlighted the significance of global collaboration among leaders and encouraged participants to embrace the values of unity and inclusivity.

An opening prayer was then led by Rev. Fr. Justo De La Fuente Fernandez, IYCS–JECI International Chaplain, who invited participants to seek divine guidance for their deliberations and reaffirmed the spiritual foundation of YCS.

Keynote Session 1: Ethical Leadership in Youth Movements Based on Christian Values

The first keynote session was presented by Mr. Manoj Dyson Fernandes, who delivered a rich and inspiring reflection on ethical leadership within youth movements. Drawing from biblical references, the teachings of Jesus Christ, and real-life experiences, he emphasized the qualities of inclusivity, compassion, humility, and courage in leadership. He stressed that young leaders should question unjust social norms, practice forgiveness, and prioritize human welfare by addressing urgent issues such as climate change and mental health.

Mr. Fernandes highlighted the following key points:

• Inclusivity: Leaders must embrace diversity and practice inclusivity, following the example of Jesus who broke social boundaries.
• Courage to Question: Ethical leaders must not shy away from questioning unjust norms or the status quo when it conflicts with human dignity.
• Compassion over Punishment: Mistakes within teams should be met with compassion and guidance rather than punishment.
• Technology Challenges: Concerns were raised over the rising influence of AI and screen time, urging leaders to encourage healthy, ethical use of technology.
• Seeds of Ethical Leadership: Humility, forgiveness, non-violent resistance, and service were highlighted as central traits of leadership.
• Historical Illustrations: He shared examples of interfaith harmony from India, stressing the importance of solidarity across differences.

Following the presentation, participants engaged in a Q&A session, raising questions on leadership, Christian values, and the role of digital media in youth ministry.

Keynote Session 2: Social Action Leadership in Practice and Style of Administration

The second keynote address was delivered by Mr. Aaron Fenu, who focused on social action leadership and administration in youth movements. He highlighted pressing challenges facing YCS today, including weakened leadership development, credibility gaps, communication breakdowns, and underrepresentation of female leaders.

Mr. Fenu emphasized the need to redefine chaplaincy roles, adapt YCS structures to present realities, and build strong systems that ensure transparency and accountability. He presented a comprehensive “ten commandments” for rebuilding YCS, focusing on leadership formation, mentorship, grassroots reactivation, consistent communication, digital engagement, and stronger relationships with Church hierarchies.

His presentation encouraged national movements to adopt updated methodologies that combine leadership formation with social activities, fostering a vibrant and relevant presence among students. A subsequent interactive discussion provided space for leaders to share concerns and propose action steps for renewal.

Address of the Secretary General

The gathering was marked by the official address of Mr. Roshan Melwyn Lobo, International Secretary General of IYCS. Speaking for the first time to national leaders since his election at the World Council in Jordan (2024), he expressed gratitude for the dedicated service of leaders across regions.

He reminded participants of the remarkable 97-year legacy of YCS, rooted in the spirituality of Cardinal Joseph Cardijn, and called leaders to prepare for the historic centenary in 2028. He praised initiatives such as the Eco Africa Campaign, the work of YCS Jordan, YCS Sri Lanka’s YouTube outreach, and the Young Leaders Academy in Indonesia, among others.

Acknowledging challenges such as financial constraints, lack of chaplaincy support, and limited infrastructure, he encouraged leaders not to lose heart but to remain bridges rather than builders of walls. He reminded them of the sacrifices of former YCS members who gave their lives for justice and Gospel values, calling today’s leaders to continue their mission with courage, compassion, and commitment.

Announcements and Contributions

Mr. Jonathan Pagel, Member of the Advocacy Commission of IYCS, extended a special invitation to all participants to join the YouthLead Dialogue 2025 in preparation for the YouthLead Festival at the United Nations in New York, September 2025. He encouraged young leaders to bring forward their voices and visions for global change.

Ms. Grace Helena Putranto, Editor of the International YCS Magazine “Connections”, announced the call for articles and creative contributions for the upcoming issue, with a deadline of 30 August 2025. She shared links for guidelines and submissions, encouraging leaders and students to actively contribute.

Participants were also invited to complete the Certificate of Participation form, with the link shared in the chatbox, ensuring official recognition of their engagement.

Closing Session

The meeting concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Ms. Marie Lucie Camara, IYCS Africa Coordinator, who acknowledged the contributions of speakers, leaders, and the Secretariat.

A group photograph was taken virtually, symbolizing unity across regions, followed by a concluding prayer from Rev. Fr. Justo De La Fuente Fernandez.

The IYCS National Leaders Meeting 2025, organized by the International Secretariat, was a milestone of reflection, renewal, and solidarity. It reaffirmed the movement’s mission of empowering young Catholics to be voices of faith, justice, and transformation in their communities. With its rich exchanges, visionary keynotes, and practical commitments, the meeting has set a clear direction for the future of IYCS as it journeys toward its centenary in 2028.