On December 5–6, 2025, the TLAfrica Rwanda Office hosted a powerful Youth Empowerment Training Conference at the Transformational Leadership in Africa Conference Center in Cyuve Sector, Musanze. The two-day gathering brought together 52 young people (25 male and 27 female) from universities, institutions, and local communities—many already in college and others preparing for that next chapter of life.

The theme, “Mental Health Awareness While Integrating Christian Values,” was chosen in response to a growing reality: young people today face increasing emotional and psychological pressures, yet many lack safe, faith-affirming spaces to process these struggles. This conference created exactly that—a place of learning, reflection, prayer, and honest conversation.

Creating a Safe Space for Growth

The conference was facilitated by Pastor Kwizera Samuel, Youth Pastor at New Life Church Kigali and a university lecturer, with Pastor Aloys Bujori leading morning devotions. Together, they guided participants through thoughtful, practical sessions that connected mental health, identity, faith, and community.

From the very beginning, the message was clear: mental health is not separate from daily life or faith. It influences how young people think, feel, relate to others, make decisions, and perform academically. When ignored, it often reveals itself quietly—through emotional exhaustion, strained relationships, isolation, or loss of motivation.

Day One: Understanding Stress and Identity

On the first day, participants explored mental health as a normal and essential part of a flourishing life—emotionally, academically, and spiritually.

Through the interactive “Stress Bucket” activity, youths identified:

  • what fills their personal stress “bucket,”

  • what drains it, and

  • healthy coping tools they wanted to intentionally practice.

Post-seminar reflections helped participants name their top stressors and commit to practical steps for emotional care. Many discovered that caring for their inner world is not selfish—it is responsible.

The day continued with a deep dive into identity—the story young people believe about themselves, shaped by family, culture, life experiences, and the powerful influence of social media. Participants recognized how insecurity often surfaces through comparison, people-pleasing, or a constant feeling of being “not enough.”

The Mirror Exercise challenged them to see themselves beyond performance or external approval. Reflection worksheets invited them to identify:

  • truths they know about themselves,

  • areas of strength,

  • fragile parts of their identity, and

  • false sources of worth they wanted to stop relying on.

For many students, this session resonated deeply. College is a season of quiet identity struggles, and participants left encouraged by the truth that identity is discovered and developed—not earned—and that faith offers a stable foundation in a noisy world.

Day Two: Faith, Community, and Emotional Resilience

Day two focused on the vital role of faith and community in maintaining mental health. Drawing from Psalm 34:17–18 and Philippians 4:6–7, the facilitator reminded participants that Scripture does not deny emotional pain—but it shows us where to take it.

Using insights from The Screwtape Letters, participants learned how distraction, worry, and fear about the future are often used to pull believers into anxiety. Scripture revealed a different response: when hearts are troubled, God invites us to cry out for help.

Participants were encouraged by the truth that Christ Himself experienced suffering and is close to the brokenhearted. When anxiety fills the heart, peace is lost—but trusting God means believing He will help us endure and overcome, even when circumstances do not go as planned.

The sessions also emphasized the importance of community. While hardship cannot be prevented, isolation can be. Everyone needs people who listen, pray, and remind them that they belong. Participants were encouraged to remain rooted in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, reading God’s Word, and regular fellowship with other believers.

Participant Feedback & Recommendations

Participants expressed deep gratitude and enthusiasm, along with thoughtful recommendations for future programs:

  • A strong desire for ongoing Bible study groups at the center

  • Appreciation for the beauty of the facility, alongside a request for help improving road access, possibly through a community workday

  • A wish to extend the training beyond two days

  • Requests for future topics, including Christian youth and sexuality

  • Interest in economic empowerment opportunities for youth with business ideas

  • A recommendation to place a billboard on the main road to help visitors locate the center

  • A desire to include youth who did not attend university, recognizing shared challenges among all young people

Participants also valued the opportunity to connect with peers from different schools, building friendships and mutual encouragement.

Voices from the Youth

Clemantina Twizerimana (Bukinanyana Cell):         

“I learned that the mind is like the commander in a war—if it is protected, the whole team can succeed. An unclear mind leads to unclear decisions. I related deeply because past decisions led me into depression and even questioning God’s existence. When the facilitator said ‘worry is practical atheism,’ it changed how I see my emotions. I am now intentionally evaluating my emotional health and trusting God for a stable mindset.”

           Rebecca Uwineza (INES, Third-Year Student):

“What stood out to me most was how faith helps me navigate difficult challenges. I am leaving encouraged and committed to strengthening my spiritual habits.”

           John Kerry:

“This training felt like personal therapy. I identified what causes my worry and learned how to manage it. With this foundation, I feel confident that I can guard my faith and mental well-being.”

Looking Ahead

This Youth Empowerment Conference reminded us that when young people are given safe spaces, biblical truth, and practical tools, transformation happens. TLAfrica remains committed to walking alongside the next generation—guarding minds, strengthening faith, and shaping leaders who are emotionally healthy and spiritually grounded.