Joy as IMMACULATE KISEMBO, the Laudato Youth Initiative – Publications Editor graduates with a Bachelor of Arts with Education, in English Language and Literature with an excellent FIRST-CLASS HONORS from Kyambogo University. This has proven that passion and dedication can create a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of others. Kisembo’ story as a member of the Laudato Youth Initiative not only highlights her personal commitment in writing and publicity achievements but also emphasizes the importance of youth empowerment and leadership mentorship

She is a mentor and example for the young, always concerned about how society can better address the challenge of mental health issues including those caused by climate change related problems. She understands our world’s wounds of mental health among young people in families and works hard to raise voices against mental health including helping young people overcome it with her proactive strategies aimed at supporting mental well-being among our Laudato Youth through her writings and participation in hybrid local and international conferences. When asked of her model of helping young people deal with mental health these are the strategies she outlines. First is fostering a supportive environment: Creating an atmosphere where our Laudato Youth feel safe and valued. Encouraging open communication, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns without fear of judgment while also giving them an opportunity to contribute innovative ideas.

 She is also a promoter of the idea of “Mindfulness Practices” a concept that is very important in encouraging our Laudato Youth to listen and think twice through activities such as meditation with nature (talk of nature walks), deep breathing exercises, and singing. These practices can help our Laudato Youth manage stress and enhance their focus and emotional regulation.

 Encouraging Healthy Relationships. This pillar encourages her to facilitate team-building activities and positive interactions among our Laudato Youth. Building strong friendships according to her can provide a support system that promotes mental well-being. You can’t miss seeing her engaging with Laudato Youth every Sunday after Mass.

Taking students for a nature walk after Mass on Sunday facilitated conversations about real life issues and put a smiley on their faces. You can vividly see the joy nature gives

Being a writing enthusiast, she generously shares information about mental health resources, to ensure our Laudato Youth know what to do and where to seek help when needed.

Tr. Immy, as most Laudato Youth call her, recognizes signs of distress in her youth as she is often observant of changes in behavior or moods among young people and carefully journeys with them as stressed by one of her students at Aloyceous Secondary School in Tanzania who was studying English for the first time but was very nervous about the language until she discovered the teacher understood her struggle from the way she behaved.

As a mentor to fellow young people Kisembo Leads by example; she can even show vulnerability and share personal experiences related to mental health when appropriate. This is what defines a person of faith values to admit the imperfections within us to inspire others to raise or draw lessons for their betterment. Her achievement is a result of a balanced lifestyle that encourages our youth today to balance lifetime for academics, extracurricular activities, helping others and leisure as part of growth. This helps Laudato Youth understand the importance of holidays and taking breaks thus practicing self-care.

 Many Laudato youth you have encountered her have learnt to Incorporate Social-Emotional Learning: Integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into their activities. She teaches Laudato youth skills like empathy, resilience, and conflict resolution to enhance their emotional intelligence.

 Availability to offer flexible support for our Laudato youth and many young people out there often need a listening ear and sharing joyful moments. This makes a significant difference in their mental health.

 What sets Kisembo apart is her unique passion for mental health, which she has shared at various hybrid conferences organized by the Laudato Youth Initiative. Her commitment to this crucial topic has opened doors for discussions and awareness among young people. By addressing mental health issues, Kisembo empowers her peers to seek help and support, creating a community where vulnerability is embraced. Her dedication to mental health advocacy is a testament to her character and her desire to uplift those around her.

 Kisembo’s teaching career has embraced the role of an educator, guided young minds while fostered a love for learning. This experience has shaped her into a leader who understands the significance of education in transforming lives and the environment as caring for Mother Earth.

In addition to her teaching and advocacy work, Kisembo possesses various skills that greatly benefit the Laudato Youth Initiative. Critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication are just a few of her strengths that have contributed to our young people’s success. Her leadership roles, particularly with the Rotaract Club of Kyambogo, demonstrate her ability to inspire others and make a difference in the community. Kisembo’s diverse talents showcase the importance of collaboration and skill-sharing in achieving common goals.

Furthermore, Kisembo’s gift of singing with the Infinite Singers – Catholic Youth and Celestial reflects her deep spiritual connection and love for God and his creation. This passion adds another layer to her character, making her a true witness to the values of the Laudato Youth Initiative. In all this, she has rejuvenated creativity that will coexist and inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Laudato Youth through her writings and participation in hybrid local and international conferences. When asked of her model of helping young people deal with mental health these are the strategies she outlines.

 First is fostering a supportive environment: Creating an atmosphere where our Laudato Youth feel safe and valued. Encouraging open communication, allowing them to express their feelings and concerns without fear of judgment while also giving them an opportunity to contribute innovative ideas.

She is also a promoter of the idea of “Mindfulness Practices” a concept that is very important in encouraging our Laudato Youth to listen and think twice through activities such as meditation with nature (talk of nature walks), deep breathing exercises, and singing. These practices can help our Laudato Youth manage stress and enhance their focus and emotional regulation.

Encouraging Healthy Relationships. This pillar encourages her to facilitate team-building activities and positive interactions among our Laudato Youth. Building strong friendships according to her can provide a support system that promotes mental well-being. You can’t miss seeing her engaging with Laudato Youth every Sunday after Mass.

Helping others and leisure as part of growth. This helps Laudato Youth understand the importance of holidays and taking breaks thus practicing self-care.

 Many Laudato youth you have encountered her have learnt to Incorporate Social-Emotional Learning: Integrate social-emotional learning (SEL) into their activities. She teaches Laudato youth skills like empathy, resilience, and conflict resolution to enhance their emotional intelligence.

What sets Kisembo apart is her unique passion for mental health, which she has shared at various hybrid conferences organized by the Laudato Youth Initiative. Her commitment to this crucial topic has opened doors for discussions and awareness among young people. By addressing mental health issues, Kisembo empowers her peers to seek help and support, creating a community where vulnerability is embraced. Her dedication to mental health advocacy is a testament to her character and her desire to uplift those around her.

A Lot can be said about Kisembo, but we thank God with our own as she humbly shines as an example of who Laudato Youth are and what can be achieved through hard work, passion, and dedication. Her vocation as a teacher will inspire many young people to embrace their unique gifts and strive for a better future. Celebrating Kisembo’s accomplishments serves as a reminder of the positive impact one individual can have on the community. Her story encourages others and should encourage whoever reads this testament to pursue their passions, support young people and be mindful of their mental health, give them hope for the future, encourage them to be humble, maximize their talents and use them to uplift those around them. Congratulations and Cheers!

Story by
Laudato Youth Initiative Mentor