Young people today face numerous challenges, including peer pressure, negative influences, and distractions. To cope with these challenges, many young people turn to vices such as drugs, alcohol, and other destructive behaviors. However, the General Conference Health Ministries Department, in collaboration with the youth, education, family, and global mission departments, has launched a global program to assist individuals in finding positive alternatives and connecting with their friends, family, community, and, most importantly, with their Lord and Savior.
The Youth Alive program seeks to give young people a sense of purpose and direction in their lives. It recognizes that for young people to thrive, they require positive role models and a supportive community. The program seeks to engage young people in meaningful and rewarding experiences that will help them grow and develop as individuals through a variety of activities, such as sports, arts, and community service.
In March 2023, Naga City Adventist College (NVAC) in Bicol, Philippines, held its Youth Alive Convention. This convention also promotes the development of healthy habits and lifestyles among young people. It recognizes the importance of physical and mental health in overall well-being. The program provides young people with information and resources on topics such as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health through workshops, seminars, and other educational activities.
"According to a recent study, youth drug abuse is a high-profile public health concern," said Dr. Lalaine Alfanoso, Health Ministries director for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD).
"Youth Alive is a program that teaches teens and young adults how to make healthy choices, increasing their resilience. By participating in the Youth Alive program, teens can better understand their gifts and their purpose," Alfanoso added.
The emphasis on spiritual growth and development is the most important aspect of the Youth Alive program. Faith, according to the program, can be a powerful force for positive change in the lives of young people.
The Youth Alive Convention was organized by Naga View Adventist College administrators and faculty to equip young leaders to replicate the program in their respective spheres of influence and promote the type of community this program creates for those who participate in it.
"Our goal is to make the church and community places of change and development," said Abraham Azupardo, NVAC Physical Education faculty member. "A lot of young people wanted to find a place where they could be accepted and change and become whom [sic] they wanted to be." He added, "We wanted to tell our young people that they can find a place where they belong and be a part of a community through this program."
NVAC students participated in a variety of activities ranging from seminars to breakout sessions to sports games and workshops, as well as other enjoyable activities.
Students who attended the convention expressed their gratitude on social media, saying it was one of a kind and they were encouraged by how the spiritual aspect of the convention was highlighted through well-planned activities aimed at developing a relationship with Christ and ministry.
Following the success of the program in NVAC, the SSD Health Ministries Department is planning the Youth Alive Convention Second Wave in August 2023 at the Asia-Pacific International University in Muak Lek, Thailand.
The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.