By Émile Tigang, Youth Representative for New Brunswick
An indicator of the vibrancy of the youth movement within Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada is the wide range of activities that our young members participate in or lead across Canada. This series presents just two examples from this past summer. This first part is an account of an event in Moncton, N.B. The second part describes a youth retreat in New Hamburg, Ont.
On Saturday 27 June 2026, around 50 youths from the region gathered for Friendship & Solidarity Day: Under the Same Sky of Peace, an event organized by the Moncton youth committee of Development and Peace ― Caritas Canada (DPCC). The aim was to strengthen young people’s resilience and build an inclusive community, around a theme close to the group’s heart―peace as a fundamental right, not something to be earned.
Due to inclement weather, the event, that was originally scheduled to be held in Victoria Park, ultimately took place in the reception hall of Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral. The change of venue did nothing to dampen the group’s enthusiasm. The welcome, workshops and shared meal went exactly as planned, in an atmosphere that was just as warm. proving that good preparation keeps one on track, whatever the weather.
Youth that weaves connections
The day began with an official welcome, followed by the Thread of Friendship, a unique icebreaker activity centred around a ball of woolen yarn. Standing in circle, each person shared a word or a thought before passing the yarn to the next person. Gradually, a genuine network was woven between the participants, creating a tangible symbol of the solidarity that the day sought to celebrate. This was followed by a presentation on DPCC’s mission by Nicolas Kalgora, the animator for New Brunswick.
Workshops for reflecting and acting together
The highlight of the afternoon was three key activities, designed and led by the young volunteers from DPCC:
The UN round table
Designed by Jordan Diomande and organised by Kevin Koffi, this youth diplomacy simulation involved participants taking on the roles of delegations from different countries and debating a global issue―climate justice and women’s rights―before drafting a joint resolution together. This challenging exercise enabled the young people to step into the shoes of international decision-makers for an hour.
The orange trading game
Led by Gabin Nana and Maurel Kouekam, this team-based activity put participants in the shoes of families struggling, as best they could, to cope with the cost of living in the face of ruthless traders. Amidst tough negotiations, unexpected twists and laughter, the atmosphere oscillated between a survival game and pure entertainment. It was a playful yet practical way of addressing global economic inequalities in a very tangible manner.
The collective art project
Led by Elliot Gnacadja, this final activity took the form of a group painting session. The youths created paintings whilst chatting freely on the theme of peace. Between brushstrokes, the conversations flowed freely in a wonderful blend of artistic creation and human connection that brought the day’s activities to a close on a note that was both creative and heart-warming.
Notable contributors
The day was also marked by the involvement of a few members who had travelled from further afield. Guy Joel Ngankam, who arrived with a young participant from Bathurst, was thoroughly committed throughout the activities, supporting several people. Claudia Lolot, from Edmundston, brought her cheerful disposition right from the start of the preparations. In the Orange Trading Game, she brilliantly played the role of the moneylender, a key character who really added spice to the game.
Solidarity beyond our borders
Two members from the Archdiocese of Moncton, Louise Cormier and Isabelle Lavoie, delivered a memorable presentation on their then-upcoming solidarity trip to Peru. Their visit the following month served as a reminder that our movement’s commitment extends far beyond the borders of New Brunswick or even Canada, and that every local initiative, like our little event in Moncton, is part of a truly international solidarity movement.
A closing ceremony, a shared meal
The day ended with closing remarks and personal accounts moderated by Hadrien Gayap, followed by a community barbecue prepared and served by Esther Tinwa and her team of volunteers. Over hot dogs, burgers and ice cream, conversations continued well after the programme had officially ended―a sign, if one were needed, that the bonds forged that day would endure.
A success that reflected the group’s character
Several young people expressed interest in joining our movement, having learned, through the activities, of the mission and values championed by DPCC. This was a strong indication that the day’s objectives of raising awareness and mobilizing support had been achieved.
A huge thank you to Brainman Kamlen, Émile Tigang, Elliot Gnacadja, Jordan Diomanddé, Hadrien Gayap, Gabin Nana, Maurel Kouekam, Esther Tinwa and all the other volunteers who helped make this event a success. Thank you also to Nicolas Kalgora and youth program officer Lea Mannari for their encouragement and support.
The enthusiasm shown at this year’s event confirms the Moncton youth committee’s commitment to continuing to champion the values of peace, solidarity and friendship at future events.