YMCA Batticaloa Joins 2026 Youth Volunteer Leadership Training Programme
YMCA Batticaloa Joins the V3 Youth Volunteer Leadership Training Programme
YMCA Batticaloa was pleased to take part in the Youth Volunteer Leadership Training Programme (V3), conducted by the National Council of YMCAs in 2026 for the North and East Regions. Held on 26 and 27 September at Kamam Folk High School in Kallar, the programme brought young volunteers together for two days of learning, collaboration, and personal growth.
The training offered a valuable opportunity to explore what it means to lead with purpose, work effectively as a team, and encourage meaningful youth participation. For YMCA Batticaloa, it was also a chance to strengthen our commitment to serving communities as active and responsible volunteers.
Two Days of Learning and Connection
Leadership is not only about taking charge. It also involves listening, understanding the needs of others, and helping a group move towards shared goals. Throughout the programme, participants reflected on these ideas and considered how they could apply them in their YMCA activities and local communities.
The setting at Kamam Folk High School helped create a welcoming space for discussion and shared learning. Volunteers from across the North and East Regions had the chance to meet, exchange experiences, and learn from one another. These connections are an important part of regional cooperation and help young people see how their contributions fit into a wider YMCA community.
Building Leadership Skills
The programme focused on practical leadership skills that young volunteers can use in everyday situations. Participants explored communication, responsibility, decision-making, and the importance of leading by example. Such skills can help volunteers plan activities, support their peers, and respond thoughtfully to challenges.
Leadership development also gives young people greater confidence in their abilities. When volunteers are encouraged to share ideas and take initiative, they can contribute more fully to the work of their YMCA and help create activities that reflect the needs of their communities.
Learning Through Teamwork
Teamwork was another important part of the two-day experience. YMCA initiatives depend on people working together, sharing responsibilities, and respecting different perspectives. Through group learning and interaction, participants saw how collaboration can turn individual ideas into stronger, more effective action.
A supportive team also helps volunteers learn from mistakes, recognize each other’s strengths, and remain motivated. These lessons are especially valuable when planning community programmes, where cooperation and clear communication can make a meaningful difference.
Encouraging Youth Participation
The V3 programme highlighted the importance of giving young people a genuine role in shaping decisions and activities. Youth participation is strongest when young people are not simply invited to attend, but are trusted to contribute ideas, take responsibility, and help guide the work.
For YMCA Batticaloa, this principle is central to building a vibrant volunteer community. When young people are heard and supported, they can bring fresh perspectives to local initiatives and help ensure that activities respond to the interests and priorities of their peers.
Taking part in the training also gave volunteers an opportunity to reflect on how they can encourage wider involvement. Small steps—such as inviting new members to share ideas, assigning meaningful roles, and creating an inclusive environment—can help more young people feel that they belong and can make a difference.
Strengthening Our Role as YMCA Volunteers
The two-day training was a reminder that volunteering is both a commitment and an opportunity. YMCA volunteers contribute time and energy to their communities, while also developing skills, relationships, and a stronger sense of responsibility.
By participating in the Youth Volunteer Leadership Training Programme, YMCA Batticaloa volunteers returned with useful insights to carry into their work. The experience reinforced the value of leadership, teamwork, and active youth engagement, while building connections with fellow volunteers from the North and East Regions.
YMCA Batticaloa is grateful to the National Council of YMCAs for conducting the V3 programme and to Kamam Folk High School for hosting the gathering. The lessons and relationships formed during these two days will continue to support our efforts to serve, learn, and grow together as YMCA volunteers.
