On September 19th, 2025, young people from all walks of life gathered for a vibrant Youth Empowerment Movement seminar themed “Empowered to Influence.” From the get-go, the goal was simple but bold: give youth a safe, exciting space to worship, bond, and grab skills that would help them become real-life change makers—not just someday, but right now! The agenda was clear: spark hearts with powerful worship, learn from inspiring stories and teachings, and finish the day with courage to influence the world for the better.
The event started on a high note with high-energy worship and prayer. The room was alive with singing and laughter; you could almost feel purpose and hope soaking in alongside the music. After everyone was truly awake in both spirit and smiles, our lively host Miss Priscilla McDonald set the stage for an epic line-up of speakers.
First up was Pastor Emelda, who got everyone thinking about influence—not just as a buzzword, but as a way of life. She made it clear: to influence is to make a genuine difference, and just like a soldier needs a good toolbox, every young person needs tools like discipline, a positive mindset, agility, resilience, commitment, and obedience to stand strong and leave a mark. Instead of making these qualities sound like chores, she showed how they can be a source of pride and power, something to celebrate and grow.
Next, Pastor Sarah took everyone on an emotional journey through her own story—one filled with ups and downs, moments of real sadness, hilarious missteps, and ultimately, triumph. Her message was a hug for the soul: your struggles don’t define you, but they can shape you into the kind of person who really makes a difference for others. If you’ve ever felt like you can’t change, Pastor Sarah’s courage and honesty were proof that you absolutely can.
Rashida brought the focus back to the inner game—emphasizing that true influence starts with self-mastery. You have to lead yourself before you can lead others! Consistency, character, and sticking to your principles are what set real influencers apart, and Rashida encouraged everyone to make discipline their best friend, instead of waiting around for someone else’s stamp of approval.
Sandra picked up the baton and got real about wholeness—what it is (embracing who you are, flaws and all!) and, just as importantly, what it isn’t (perfection). She reminded everyone that their journeys, complete with brokenness and healing, make them relatable and powerful. It’s wholeness and authenticity, not flawlessness, that connects people deeply and creates lasting impact.
Just when everyone thought things couldn’t get more real, Nicholar took the stage. Her testimony about wrestling with identity as a coloured young woman in Zimbabwe—and facing the extra challenge of becoming a teen mom at seventeen—was incredibly moving. She showed raw honesty, speaking about stigma, rejection, and eventually, self-acceptance. Nicholar’s journey reminded everyone that true influence often grows in the toughest places, and that speaking your truth can empower countless others to rise up as well.
The day wrapped up with a fun, down-to-earth panel discussion tackling big questions: how do you keep faith when things are tough, get along with parents who don’t share your beliefs, and deal with rejection without giving up? Panelists gave relatable tips—reminding everyone that leadership and influence aren’t just for the big moments, but show up in daily decisions, family dramas, and quiet comebacks after setbacks.
When it was time to say goodbye, the energy was lighter but the sense of purpose stronger. This wasn’t just another seminar—it was a day that built courage, faith, and practical wisdom. Everyone who attended walked out knowing that influence doesn’t come from being perfect, but from being whole: embracing every piece of the journey and daring to make a difference, starting now.
