The Don Bosco YaR Leaders Orientation Program 2025, themed “Mission of Don Bosco Ministry: Justice for Young People,” was held at SPCI House, Dwarka, from July 29-31. This dynamic gathering brought together 21 participants, including Salesians, lay collaborators, and field leaders from across India. The program began with a solemn lamp-lighting ceremony and opening reflections, with Fr. Joseph Manippadeth emphasizing resilience despite obstacles and Mr. Om Prakash Vyas urging vigilance in exposing child protection system flaws. 

Ten resource persons facilitated key sessions over three days. Fr. Joe Prabu presented the new YaR Child Safeguarding Policy and Forum objectives, while Fr. Patrick Lepcha delivered a statistical analysis on juvenile exploitation in India. Fr. C.J. George focused on gospel-centered youth ministry for underprivileged children, and Fr. Francis Bosco addressed migrant vulnerabilities and advocacy strategies. Other significant sessions included Ms. Nicole Rangel’s guidance on strategic child rights advocacy, Ms. Chitra Iyer’s insights on cyberthreats and data protection gaps, and Adv. Anant Kumar Asthana’s clarification on child protection legislation. Ms. Moumita Roy Choudhury imparted a comprehensive YaR program analysis, Raj Parit provided an overview of digital technologies such as HomeLink DIGI, while Mr. William Kullu provided details on the next YaR campaign. 

Participants visited Don Bosco Ashalayam and Snehalaya for hands-on experience with YaR work in action. The final day featured Mr. Bindiya Sarkar’s workshop on child care duties and Chief Guest of the day, Ms. Sharmila Ray’s (UNICEF) speech on building empathy and trust beyond legal frameworks. The orientation concluded with a city tour, fostering participant bonding. Attendees departed with renewed determination and a unified commitment to lead with vision, defend with purpose, and serve with passion in the Don Bosco YaR Network.