The charism of the Brothers of the Immaculate Conception (FIC) is expressed not only in words but also in concrete actions that respond to people's needs, especially those of the poor and vulnerable. Rooted in education, formation, teaching, and a preferential option for the poor, the FIC Brothers of the Malawi Province continue to seek meaningful ways to accompany young people, helping them to discover their dignity, develop their potential, and contribute positively to society.

In this spirit, the FIC communities in Malawi brought together young people from the established FIC youth clubs in Mzedi, Bethel, Mitengo and Maryview for a practical skills-training programme on 3 September 2026. The initiative targeted young people from poor and needy backgrounds, offering them the opportunity to acquire useful skills for personal development and future livelihoods. The training took place at St. Patrick’s Secondary School in Mzedi and was facilitated by Sr. Kadzala, SBVM.

During the programme, participants received practical instruction in preparing dishwashing liquid soap, laundry liquid soap and glycerine-based body products. Through hands-on experience, they learned to make these products and gained knowledge they could apply in their own communities.

The initiative went beyond transferring practical skills; it invested in young people's future. At a time when unemployment, poverty and limited training opportunities remain significant challenges, such initiatives can help young people become more self-reliant and explore small-scale income-generating activities. By focusing particularly on disadvantaged youth, the programme gave concrete expression to the FIC's commitment to a preferential option for the poor. It affirmed that young people should not merely receive assistance but also be empowered to recognize and develop their own gifts and abilities.

To help participants apply their newly acquired skills, the FIC communities provided starter materials for them to take to their respective villages. These materials offered a practical starting point for producing items for household use and for possible sale. The support therefore bridged learning and action, with the hope that the young people would gradually develop small income-generating activities, meet some daily needs, and move towards greater self-reliance.

Although the training in Mzedi lasted only one day, its benefits may extend well beyond the event. Each skill acquired can open new possibilities, and each young person empowered can become an agent of change within their family and community. The experience was more than a skills-training session; it was the FIC charism in action—educating, forming and teaching young people while standing alongside those with fewer opportunities.

Bro. Gerald Nyakulama