YOUNG LEADERS IN THE WORLD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Young Leaders in the World of Social Media

• Posted on 24-Mar-2025
• Uploaded by | NITIKA DON BOSCO

Sonada, March 23, 2025  The Youth Department of Salesian College Sonada, in collaboration with Missio, organized a workshop titled ‘Young Leaders in the world of Social Media’  intending to develop in the  young leadership qualities in using media. Some 60 young leaders  from 16 villages surrounding the college  participated in the event. 

The day’s programme began with lighting of the lamp and words of welcome by the Rector, Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, emphasizing the positive role that social media can play when used responsibly. Fr. Arvind Khalkho SDB, Assistant Professor of Salesian College, Siliguri was the resource person of the day.  His presentation was centered on the theme that the young people are to become leaders rather than servants of social media.

 
Dividing the participants into groups named after popular social media platform such as YouTube, Twitter, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, Fr. Arvind brought to light the stark reality of the significant amount of time spent unproductively by young people on social media by projecting the researched data. He also exhorted them to become creators and not mere consumers of social media.
During the second session, the groups identified various social issues faced in their local communities, including water shortage, inadequate roads, and lack of proper transportation etc. Each group then explained one by one the issues they had noted. The session that followed lunch focused on creative expressions of these social issues by writing scripts about them and producing short videos. This activity not only deepened their understanding of these challenges but also equipped them with creative tools to advocate change.

On asking about her experience of the event, Miss. Safalta Lepcha of Rungmuk said, “The programme was very nice, practical, and informative. We learned new things and were introduced to a new way of thinking, and it was fun to do the activities together in a group. Overall, the programme was both enjoyable and helpful.”

Another participant Naina Bhitrikoti from the township of Sonada expressed, “It was an amazing session. The speaker was very engaging and the topic was incredibly relevant. It really made us aware how to use social media wisely. We Look forward to such events in future.”

The workshop concluded with vote of thanks delivered by Alisha Lepcha from the township of Sonada.  A token of appreciation was given to each group for its active participation. Fr. Clement Lakra SDB, the coordinator of the programme extended his sincere thanks to the youth for their enthusiastic participation, and the resource person for his insightful sessions and availability. The event was further enriched by an entertaining moment led by the students of the College, leaving the participants inspired and motivated to bring about positive social change.

Cl. Clement Soren SDB