On Thursday, 30 October 2025, YUVA staff members visited Ti Rayons Soleil in the district of Black River to deliver a youth workshop on basic leadership and problem-solving skills. The session, held from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm, brought together twelve enthusiastic children eager to learn how to take initiative, make decisions, and work effectively in teams.

The event formed part of YUVA’s wider engagement in promoting youth empowerment and non-formal education through hands-on, community-based sessions. It also marked a meaningful collaboration with one of Mauritius’s most respected social organisations, Ti Rayons Soleil, whose long-standing mission is to uplift vulnerable children and families across the island.

A Warm Welcome from Ti Rayons Soleil

Upon arrival at the organisation’s community space, the YUVA team was welcomed by Mr Yash Sharma, Project Coordinator of the ANBA programme, and Ms Thessa Labeauté, Social Worker and Coordinator Assistant. Both offered an introduction to the history and objectives of Ti Rayons Soleil and gave a tour of the premises, highlighting how each activity contributes to the well-being and personal development of children.

The name Ti Rayons Soleil, meaning “Little Rays of Sun”, captures the organisation’s philosophy perfectly — to bring hope, light, and warmth into the lives of those who need it most. Founded in 2007, Ti Rayons Soleil works to reduce poverty and social exclusion, focusing on children, young people, women, and families living in challenging circumstances. Its programmes combine education, nutrition, healthcare, and psychosocial support to ensure holistic growth.

In Black River, the organisation runs a vibrant local centre where children gather after school to study, play, and receive guidance from trained professionals and volunteers. The space provides a safe, nurturing environment that promotes self-confidence, creativity, and community spirit.

Introducing the Workshop on Leadership and Problem-Solving

The session was facilitated by Rose Joyvani from YUVA, who introduced the concept of leadership in a simple yet engaging manner suited to the children’s age group. The workshop began with an interactive ice-breaker, encouraging everyone to share their names, hobbies, and personal strengths. This allowed the group to connect quickly and created an atmosphere of mutual respect and curiosity.

Rose explained that leadership does not necessarily mean being the boss, but rather being someone who takes initiative, listens to others, and inspires teamwork. Through relatable examples — such as helping friends resolve disagreements or organising classroom tasks — the children explored what it means to be a leader in everyday life.

The second part of the session focused on problem-solving, where participants were divided into small groups and presented with short, practical challenges. They were asked to identify the issue, discuss possible solutions, and decide on the best course of action together. This exercise highlighted the importance of communication, empathy, and critical thinking.

Engagement and Reactions from Participants

The children showed remarkable enthusiasm throughout the workshop. Many eagerly volunteered to share their ideas and reflections. Some displayed natural leadership qualities, taking charge of group discussions, while others offered creative problem-solving approaches. The overall energy of the session was positive, collaborative, and full of laughter.

Yash Sharma and Thessa Labeauté, who observed the session, expressed appreciation for the participatory method used by YUVA. They remarked that such activities not only build confidence but also equip children with soft skills essential for future academic and personal success. By learning how to express themselves, listen to peers, and take responsibility, the children developed a sense of agency — a belief that they can contribute to their community’s well-being.

Understanding Ti Rayons Soleil’s Broader Mission

Beyond this single session, Ti Rayons Soleil plays a vital role in addressing social inequalities in Mauritius. The organisation provides ongoing support in the form of educational assistance, after-school programmes, nutritional meals, medical and para-medical care, and psychosocial guidance. Its team works closely with parents, schools, and local partners to ensure that no child is left behind due to poverty or social barriers.

One of Ti Rayons Soleil’s guiding principles is solidarity through dignity. Rather than focusing solely on aid, it emphasises empowerment — helping individuals and families build the confidence and skills needed to shape their own futures. This approach aligns closely with YUVA’s vision of transforming lives through education, advocacy, and youth engagement.

During the visit, YUVA staff observed how the centre integrates play, learning, and care into daily routines. The children were surrounded by colourful educational materials, artwork, and welcoming mentors. The atmosphere reflected a genuine sense of community, where every child feels valued and supported.

Shared Values and Future Collaboration

The partnership between YUVA and Ti Rayons Soleil demonstrates the power of collaboration between organisations that share similar goals. Both entities believe that education and personal development are not confined to classrooms but are continuous processes that unfold through interaction, reflection, and real-world engagement.

The Black River workshop also highlighted the importance of experiential learning — teaching through doing. Such sessions allow young participants to actively practise leadership and teamwork rather than merely hearing about them in theory. This practical exposure nurtures life skills that can influence their approach to school, friendships, and family life.

Following the event, both teams discussed the possibility of organising follow-up sessions, focusing on topics such as emotional intelligence, goal-setting, and community participation. Strengthening this collaboration could create a long-term model of youth development in vulnerable areas, combining YUVA’s educational expertise with Ti Rayons Soleil’s community reach.

A Day of Learning and Connection

The one-hour workshop in Black River offered much more than an educational exercise — it became an exchange of ideas, values, and experiences. It showcased how small initiatives, when rooted in empathy and purpose, can spark meaningful change. For YUVA staff, it was an opportunity to witness the positive impact of Ti Rayons Soleil’s work and to contribute to a shared mission of uplifting young minds across Mauritius.

Through partnerships like these, organisations can continue to strengthen local capacity, promote inclusiveness, and inspire children to believe in their potential as future leaders and problem-solvers of their communities.

Tereza Röslerová – Communications Officer