By Afia Enosa

Don Bosco, Brunswick (Melbourne) Australia, 18 July 2023 -- More than a thousand young people and parents visited Don Bosco Youth Centre in Brunswick during the school holidays from different suburbs, which created a wide multicultural gathering for a variety of activities. Father Jan Walenciej (Director) saw this as a great opportunity to try something different among the young for this school holiday. Together with the assistance of Father Phil Gleeson (Rector) and all members of the Salesian community, Brother Thuy Nguyen from our Salesian Community in Clifton Hill, and volunteers, we managed to draw up a program that attracted a spectacular turnout of participants every single day.

The school holiday program includes: Fun games activities, Pool table lessons and tournaments for kids and parents, Table tennis lessons and tournaments; Tennis lessons; Adult nights; Jiujitsu lessons; and many outdoor and indoor activities. Kids and parents took part, and their involvement in the activities was both exciting and inspiring. Tournaments were held during the last week of the holidays and small prizes were given as a gift of appreciation for the effort and participation of those involved.

As well as providing fun games and other hands-on activities, the team of leaders and volunteers were grateful for the presence of the Jiujitsu volunteers, who managed to deliver simple and effective presentations regarding self-defence and other skills for individual protection. Jiujitsu Academy is located opposite the Youth Centre and members are willing to offer their time for the kids and parents in the Centre free of charge when needed.

Don Bosco says "Without confidence and love, there can be no true education". Many who came for the first time found Don Bosco Youth Centre a welcoming home; a place where they can find happiness and compassion, a supportive atmosphere for those facing life challenges; a community place that brings young people and parents together, and a place that plays a crucial role in providing a safe and structured environment for people to engage in positive activities.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this school holiday program was the active participation of the young people and their parents. Their participation gives us hope, life, and energy to continue to serve the wide multicultural community in our local area, giving them a sense of belonging, friendship, and responsibility.

Let us continue to pray for all young people so that we can walk and work together to build a solid foundation in their lives, for they are the future of our mission and the church. As Don Bosco says "Remember that education is a matter of the heart". Mary, Help of All People Pray for us!

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