Kinanira Parish Youth Organizes their Conference

The Kinanira Catholic Parish, in collaboration with the Kinanira Catholic Students and Professional Association (KICASAPA), organized a grand youth conference for the year 2025, from 2nd Jan-5th Jan 2025 The event, held at the parish grounds in Kinanira, Busanza Sub-county, Kisoro District, drew youth from across the region for a day of guidance, spiritual growth, and empowerment.

The conference centered around the theme derived from Ephesians 5:15-16: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” This guiding verse encouraged the youth to navigate life with wisdom and purpose, seizing opportunities and remaining steadfast in their faith amidst the challenges of modern times.

Father Felix Bigiromuhangi, the Chaplain of KICASAPA, commended the youth for their dedication and love for God, as evidenced by their active participation and efforts in organizing the event. He lauded their commitment, which he described as a testament to their deep faith and sense of responsibility.

During his address, Father Felix emphasized the importance of hard work and discipline, qualities he urged the youth to uphold in all aspects of life—be it in their homes, public spaces, or places of worship. He reminded them that these virtues are essential not only for personal growth but also for building strong, faith-driven communities.

The Chaplain also led the congregation in powerful prayers, seeking God’s blessings and the guidance of the Holy Spirit for all attendees. He encouraged the youth to remain steadfast in their spiritual journey, assuring them that God would continue to light their path as long as they remained faithful and disciplined.

Our Director KCI Institute attended the Conference

Mr. Hafashimana Keneth, the Managing Director KCI Institute and Kenlink Tours, was among the keynote speakers at the Kinanira Parish Youth Conference 2025. Addressing the gathering, he shared valuable insights aimed at empowering the youth to lead disciplined and purposeful lives.

In his speech, Mr. Hafashimana emphasized the importance of discipline in all spheres of life, urging the youth to uphold this virtue at work, in their homes, and within their schools. He highlighted discipline as a cornerstone for achieving success and building strong, responsible communities.

Encouraging the youth to adopt a proactive approach to their futures, he advised them to focus on becoming job creators rather than job seekers. “Please be job creators, not job seekers,” he stated passionately. “Life will be easy and sweet when you take charge and create opportunities for yourselves and others.”

He also stressed the importance of patience and perseverance, reminding the youth that success takes time. “Please be patient in everything you do; do not rush things,” he urged. “Learn to walk in sandals until you can afford shoes.”

His words resonated deeply with the audience, leaving them inspired to embrace discipline, patience, and entrepreneurship as tools to navigate life and achieve their goals.

Other Keynote Speakers included Counsel Tuyisenge Claver

Mr. Tuyisenge Claver, another distinguished speaker at the Kinanira Parish Youth Conference 2025, delivered an inspiring message about the importance of self-discovery. He emphasized that understanding one’s unique strengths, talents, and purpose is the foundation for achieving success and fulfillment in life.

“Take time to reflect on who you are and what you are capable of,” he advised. “Self-discovery is a journey that will guide your decisions and help you unlock your potential.”

His words encouraged the youth to explore their passions and embrace their individuality, providing a roadmap for personal growth and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Other Speakers

Among the distinguished keynote speakers at the Kinanira Parish Youth Conference 2025 was Madam Justine, who delivered an uplifting message for the youth. She started with a heartfelt prayer, asking for God’s blessings upon all the young people present. She then shared valuable advice on how to grow closer to God, emphasizing that faith should be at the center of everything they do. “In all things, remember that God is the maker of everything,” she said, encouraging the youth to always seek His guidance in their decisions and actions. Her words resonated deeply with the youth, reminding them that with God’s presence, they could achieve great things in life.

Mr. Byaruhanga Steven, another impactful speaker, focused on offering practical advice to the youth, particularly those still in school. He encouraged them to develop good behavior and strong moral values, as these would help them achieve their goals and set a solid foundation for their future. “Your behavior today shapes your future,” he stated, urging the students to be disciplined, focused, and responsible in both their academic and personal lives. His advice was aimed at equipping the youth with the tools needed to succeed in their studies and life’s endeavors. Both speakers left a lasting impression on the attendees, inspiring them to live with purpose and faith.

Words from the Chairman

Mr. Nkurunziza Richard, the Chairman of KICASAPA and Deputy Head Teacher of Kinanira Secondary School, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the facilitators who attended the Kinanira Parish Youth Conference 2025. He particularly thanked Mr. Hafashimana Keneth, the Director of KCI Institute and Kenlink Tours, for his invaluable contribution to the event.

“I would like to thank you so much for giving us your time and sharing your wisdom with our youth,” Mr. Nkurunziza said. “Your support, both financially and through your prayers and advice, was instrumental in making this mega event a success.”

He acknowledged the collective effort of all those involved in organizing and facilitating the conference, emphasizing how their dedication helped create an impactful experience for the youth. His words of appreciation highlighted the importance of collaboration and community in fostering the growth and development of young people. The conference’s success was a direct result of the commitment and contributions of all those who participated and supported the event.

Youth Sports

Following the Kinanira Parish Youth Conference 2025, attendees participated in a friendly football match at the Busanza Secondary School Playground, locally known as “Guharakibi.” The match brought together professionals and students still in school, fostering camaraderie and breaking barriers between the two groups.

The game was organized as a way to encourage open interaction and mentorship, ensuring that students felt comfortable engaging with professionals for guidance and support. It was an enjoyable and spirited match, filled with cheers and laughter from the spectators who gathered to watch.

Despite the professionals’ best efforts, the students displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, securing a decisive 2-0 victory. The match was a celebration of unity, sportsmanship, and mutual encouragement, leaving all participants and attendees with fond memories of the day.

The event successfully reinforced the conference’s message of togetherness, growth, and mentorship, ensuring that the bonds created during the conference would continue to thrive beyond its conclusion.

Some of the members Pause for photos after the conference.