Fostering peaceful and supportive environments for young individuals requires skilled and empathetic mentors. Recognizing this, Leo Club of University of Colombo organized the third phase Unity Rise, under the Prarthana 7.0 initiative on 21st of March, at the National Youth Corps Headquarters. This specialized training session was designed exclusively for National Youth Corps officers, equipping them with essential conflict resolution, mediation, and negotiation skills. Led by Mrs. Supeshala Rathnayaka, an expert in sociology, psychology, and counseling, the session provided officers with practical strategies to de-escalate conflicts, foster positive communication, and create supportive environments for the young individuals they mentor. Through this initiative, the Leo Club aimed to enhance the officers’ ability to address disputes effectively and build trust with youth.
The preparations for the training session began well in advance, with Leo Club members coordinating logistics and ensuring a structured learning environment. On the day of the workshop, the program commenced with a formal welcome speech, setting the stage for an engaging and insightful session. Mrs. Supeshala Rathnayaka then introduced key topics on youth conflict, its root causes, and the role of mentors in conflict resolution. Officers explored challenges such as miscommunication, cultural and religious differences, emotional stress, and authority struggles. A key highlight of this session was the emphasis on empathy-driven approaches, encouraging officers to view conflicts from a youth perspective and respond with understanding and patience.
The training featured a hands-on learning approach, including interactive role-playing exercises where officers practiced active listening, non-verbal communication, and negotiation techniques. Participants were also introduced to stress management strategies, such as the 4-7-8 breathing method, guided visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation, enabling them to manage their emotions before addressing disputes. As part of a broader effort to promote reconciliation and cross-cultural understanding, the session also included a documentary showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse religious and cultural heritage. This initiative aimed to educate officers on respecting different customs and traditions while fostering coexistence. By bringing attention to the shared values across religions and cultures, the documentary emphasized the need for dialogue and collaboration to build stronger, more united communities.
The success of Unity Rise was made possible through the dedication of Leo Club of University of Colombo, the expertise of Mrs. Supeshala Rathnayaka, and the active participation of National Youth Corps officers. The training session provided officers with the skills and confidence to mentor youth effectively, resolve disputes constructively, and create a more supportive environment within their institutions. Inspired by the positive impact of this phase, the team is now preparing for the final phase of Prarthana 7.0, which will focus on reconstructing a cultural space for the community—a sustainable initiative aimed at fostering unity, coexistence, and long-term peacebuilding efforts.
- By Leo Jayani Poornima -
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