Arya Youth League

The Arya Youth League of South Africa, has always had one main goal; Youth empowerment. Youth empowerment is the process by which, members of a group help youth think critically, make important decisions and implement change, not only in their personal lives, but also in the world. Skills development is a key factor in youth empowerment, as when a youth is equipped with basic skills, they are able to go out into the community, and help make changes. Collectively, these small changes, can one day make a change, nationally.

We have had many workshops and events, in the past, where we have facilitated change amongst many members of the Arya Youth League. We have hosted events such as Sureela Sangeet and youth camps. Volunteer work is also something that we are constantly striving to do, as much as we can.

There are three major areas that the Arya Youth League focuses on:

1. Leadership skills

For a youth to emerge as a true leader, they need to have mastered certain skills, and have knowledge that will put them at an advantage to others. They should have good problem-solving skills, excellent communication skills with others, and be able to take charge of a group, or situation, with respect for other members.

At our overnight camps, an exercise that we pride ourselves on, is youth driven seminars. We spilt members into different teams and give them a chance to showcase and build upon their leadership skills and communication skills, whilst enlightening fellow members, on the social awareness topic that they have chosen to present. This exercise is interactive, and vital to skills development.

2. Team Building

Many of our youth will be working in the next five to ten years, because of that, team building exercises are extremely important. Team work in the workspace, is of utmost importance. Your ability to work with others harmoniously, can either make or break your career. During our camps and other events, we like to do at least one team building exercise, preferably at the beginning, to make sure that members get to know each other, and learn how to work with each other.

3. Enlightening the Youth about our scriptures

The Arya Samaj has ten basic principles that we try to incorporate into our daily lives. These concepts are simple and universal. We try to instill these teachings into the members of the AYL, through discourses run by Purohits at our various events and camps, as well as through teaching them the essence of the Yajna. Our revered Purohits engage with our members and help them understand our scriptures at a deeper level, as well as how to open their mind to being aware of not only their well-being, but the well-being of everyone around them.

We have many future events planned, such as more interactive youth events, that focus on awareness of social issues, cultural issues and fundraisers. We are also looking to do more volunteer work, and aid youth in finding opportunities for them to excel in.

We are also looking to bring in more people into our committee that have experience in certain areas, to provide our youth with first-hand knowledge and to teach them skills that will help them in their personal life, and in their academics/careers.

The Arya Youth League as a whole, is ultimately focused on the youth, and their development, mentally and spiritually. We are here to empower youth and help them become the leaders of tomorrow.