Officials and delegates from YMCAs across Northeast India gather for a group photo during the 35th Annual Regional Council Meet at Livingstone Foundation International, Dimapur.
Dimapur, June 8 (MExN): The 35th Annual Regional Council Meet of the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), North East India Region, was held under the theme "Breaking Barriers and Striving Towards Common Achievements" at Livingstone Foundation International, Dimapur, on June 6 and 7.
Hosted by YMCA Nagaland under the leadership of its President Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, who also serves as the Regional Chairman of the North East India Regional Committee and Co-opted National Board Member of the National Council of YMCAs, the event drew delegates and officials from various YMCAs across the region including Aizawl, Shillong, Dimapur, Nongtalang, Shangpung, Jowai City, and the newly formed Gangtok YMCA in Sikkim.
Shaji James, Secretary of Movement Strengthening, National Council of YMCAs of India (NCYI), graced the occasion as Guest of Honour and delivered the keynote address during the inaugural function. Speaking on June 6, which also marked the 181st Foundation Day of YMCA globally, James underscored the importance of breaking social and cultural barriers, youth participation in leadership, and strengthening regional collaboration. “YMCA has played a vital role in bringing community service to the forefront of Christian mission and leadership,” he stated.
In his welcome address, Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema highlighted the diversity of the North Eastern region and called upon YMCA members to work together in unity for the collective growth of the youth and communities. He expressed hope that YMCA would serve as a platform for bridging differences and fostering inclusive development.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Dr. R. Lalthangliana, former Regional Chairman and President of Aizawl YMCA; Er. K. Lalsawmvela, Secretary of Aizawl YMCA; Sandy B. Tariang, Vice Chairman of YMCA NEIR; Shamir J. Thabah, Regional Secretary; Revd. G.S. Shullai, Regional Treasurer; and several YMCA NEIR committee members.
Representing YMCA Nagaland, Advisor Geoffrey Yaden called on members to “be the salt of the earth and the light of the world,” urging them to become dynamic agents of societal transformation. “It is high time YMCA became a people’s movement — impactful, inclusive, and influential,” he said.
Training sessions covered key topics such as the YMCA’s vision and mission, leadership development, operational frameworks, and resource mobilization. Resource persons included Udipta Fullonton, former NCYI Secretary for Properties and Projects; Dr. Fr. C.P. Anto, Principal of the North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research and Director of Peace Channel; Joe RZ Thanga, Secretary of Aizawl YMCA; and Shaji James.
The event also featured devotional moments including an invocation by Zhimoholi S. Zhimomi, greetings from Dr. Lalthangliana, a special song by Dimapur YMCA youth members, and a benediction by Atuonuo. The vote of thanks was delivered by Sanjeev Momin, General Secretary, YMCA Nagaland.
The two-day meet concluded with a business session, a general meeting, and reaffirmation of YMCA’s mission to serve communities through leadership and Christian service.
