14/07/2026
🌟 Empowering Young Leaders to Build Safer Communities 🌟
The National Council of YMCAs of Sri Lanka (NCYSL) successfully conducted a two-day youth training programme on 11–12 July 2026 at Sanctuary House, Pamunugama, as part of the Young People Taking Action to Prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) project.
The programme brought together 22 young leaders from the YMCA of Pamunugama and the YMCA of Negombo, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to become advocates for positive change in their communities.
Through interactive discussions, group activities and reflective learning, participants explored important topics including:
✅ S*x and Gender
✅ Gender Roles, Norms & Stereotypes
✅ Gender Identity & S*xual Orientation
✅ Power, Equality & Equity
✅ Understanding and Preventing Gender-Based Violence
Using the GBV Tree tool, participants examined the root causes, contributing factors and impacts of Gender-Based Violence, gaining a deeper understanding of how harmful social norms and unequal power dynamics contribute to violence.
Looking beyond the training, participants also developed practical awareness initiatives that they can implement within their YMCAs and share with children, youth groups and the wider community. These ideas will help promote education, dialogue and collective action to prevent GBV.
The programme also provided opportunities for fellowship and friendship, with evening activities that encouraged teamwork, meaningful conversations and stronger connections among the young leaders.
By investing in youth leadership, NCYSL continues to empower young people to become active changemakers, working together to build safer, more inclusive and violence-free communities across Sri Lanka.