Empowering the Future: Chizami Youth Society celebrates 56th Youth Day

January 5, 2025 3 Views No Comment

Kohima, January 5 (MExN): More than 800 people attended the 56th Youth Day at Theza, Chizami organized by Chizami Youth Society (CYS) under the theme “Empowering the Future: Upholding Integrity, Compassion, and Responsibility” on January 3.

Addressing the gathering as the speaker, Seno Tsuhah, Assistant Headmistress of Government High School, Khomi Village, asserted that integrity in words and actions and standing by truth, compassion, empathy, self-care, family, community and natural environment are the pillars of a strong and united Youth that would uphold the legacy of the village for future generations.

She also stressed the importance of self-reflection and accountability in leadership and youth action.

As youth is the most productive phase of life, must take responsibility, practice transparency and accountability and make a positive impact to the whole community and ecosystem which form the foundation of our village, she said.

Tsuhah shared that ‘Love and compassion should extend beyond families and immediate communities to neighboring villages and broader society.

She also lauded the efforts of the Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) and CYS team in preserving traditions and biodiversity, enlivening cultural practices, and initiating various community-building activities.

She encouraged the team to build on their achievements and continue promoting youth-driven development.

Tsuhah reminded everyone of the rewards of hard work and perseverance, whether in academics, farming, entrepreneurship or leadership.

Words and Actions are powerful, she said and urged the youth to encourage one another, avoid negative interactions, and work collaboratively to ensure the community thrives and become empowered generations.

‘We now need tribal solutions beyond our respective villages’
Kevesa Khamo, President CYF in his greetings said “We are indigenous people, and our identity starts not from ourselves, but from our village. The very spirit of community has kept our culture alive for generations, and it needs to continue.”

He said that Chizami has been at the forefront of progress, leading the Chakhesangs towards growth and self-reliance in various ways and applauded the CYS and the community.

Be it in preserving our indigenous seeds through the community seed bank, or in uplifting weavers, or in biodiversity conservation, Chizami have always risen to the occasion in upholding the continuity of our indigenous knowledge, crafts and community development, he said.

He acknowledged the CYS contributions to youth development and biodiversity and also urged the youths to embrace their identity beyond the village as “we now need tribal solutions beyond our respective villages.”

He expressed hope that the 56thYouth Day would mark a new beginning for CYS to further strengthen Chizami and the Chakhesang community.

Kewenyitso Chirhah, Chairman CYS applauded all the youths and leaders for their immense contributions towards youth and community development.

Later, Wekhrotshe Tsuhah gave the general secretary report and Neitshope-u Thopi, Asst. General Secretary shared the Chizami youth resolutions.

Exemplary award for the Khel leaders was given to Zope Venuh (Ladelekhro) and Meyielo Kenye (Pulekhro).

The youth day was also marked by Indigenous Duet with Tati, Kazhe Keju, Medoyi, Node Kede Chele, Quiz on Chizami Customary Laws, and a traditional game ‘Thoyi Ketshu.

In Folk dance competition, Kepero Khel emerged as the winner.

The program concluded with vote of thanks by Menekhrou Lohe, Games & Sports Secretary CYS.

The programme was led by Eyiewe Tsuhah while Wetshe T. Mero, Youth Director CBC and Kekhenyi-u Lohe, women chairperson, Sacred Heart Church, Chizami, prayed for the programme.