Fr. Vincent Robert SDB

Director

The Social Experience Dimension of the Salesian Youth Ministry (SYM) is a vital pathway in the holistic formation of young people. Inspired by the vision of St. John Bosco, this dimension nurtures active citizenship, social responsibility, and a deep awareness of justice and solidarity in society. Rather than being passive recipients of help, young people are empowered to become protagonists of change — for themselves, their communities, and the Church.

Key Areas of Focus:

• Voluntary service

• Leadership training

• Human rights education

• Environmental responsibility

• Social justice initiatives

• Mission experiences and outreach programs

DBYES: Don Bosco Youth Empowerment Services

Encounter: Rooted in the Salesian Preventive System, emphasizes presence, relationship, and welcoming spaces where the young feel seen, known, and valued.

Encourage: Youth are nurtured through motivation, mentoring, and accompaniment. Their dignity is affirmed, and they are supported to grow as confident, responsible, value-driven individuals.

Empower: Empowerment equips young people to take initiative, exercise leadership, and contribute to building a just and compassionate world. With the Young and For the Young — the spirit of DBYES is youthful, vibrant, and inclusive.

Don Bosco Ennore Youth Animation Centre

Serving as the Provincial Hub for the Social Experience Dimension in Chennai, and inspired by the motto: 'Inspire, Motivate, and Guide us to be all we can be,' Don Bosco Ennore animates youth groups under SYM, helping them discover potential and mission. Part of a wider Salesian network, Ennore provides dynamic platforms for gathering, growth, and service. The Social Experience Dimension empowers youth to succeed personally, serve meaningfully, and transform society.

INM - SYM Initiatives & Strategies

1. Key Past Initiatives & Best Practices:

   • Formation Programs

   • Missionary Animation

   • Youth Ministry Integration

   • Collaborative Efforts

2. Current Focus & Challenges:

   • Youth Animation Gaps

   • Leadership Continuity

   • Structural Issues

   • Digital Engagement

3. Future Plans & Vision (Short-Term and Long-Term Goals):

   • Short-Term Plans (Next 1 Year):

     • Strengthen accompaniment of local youth leaders through mentorship and training.

     • Launch regional youth gatherings focused on spiritual and leadership formation.

     • Create follow-up modules post major events for consistent engagement.

   • Long-Term Plans (Beyond 1 Year):

     • Develop a sustainable SYM structure with decentralized leadership models.

     • Establish inter-province collaboration for leadership exchange and shared events.

     • Integrate a missionary formation pathway for long-term volunteering youth.

     • Use digital platforms and media as a core part of youth engagement strategy.

“Anchored in Hope, Journeying with the Young” — The Province of Chennai (INM) witnessed a vibrant year of youth animation, community engagement, leadership formation, and sociopastoral outreach from September 2024 to May 2025. Rooted in Salesian charism, the Social Experience Dimension came alive through events, camps, competitions, and spiritual journeys where young people encountered Christ, grew in confidence, and became agents of change.