By Immaculate Kisembo | 03 July 2025. At the Laudato Youth Initiative, we recognize that effective youth leadership is not just taught, it is nurtured through expression, creativity, and purpose-driven platforms. One of the most transformative tools we’ve used to groom young leaders is co-curricular activities, especially Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD), central components of our Laudato Si’ Clubs.
MDD plays a vital role in shaping holistic learners. Beyond being a source of entertainment, these activities are powerful channels for developing creativity, boosting self-confidence, and sharpening communication skills. Through MDD, and liturgical dancing our Laudato Si’ Club members gain the freedom to express their thoughts, emotions, and values in imaginative and impactful ways.
Whether it’s performing a skit on environmental stewardship, telling stories that echo the cry of the Earth and the poor, composing songs inspired by Laudato Si’, or intergrating cultural dances during our Laudato Si Green Festivals and during liturgical moments, young people are empowered to communicate deep messages that inspire, educate, and mobilize others thus uniting for climate action embedded in our motto and SDG13 – Climate Action.
We have witnessed remarkable transformations, some of the most powerful environmental messages have come from shy or reserved students who found their voice on stage. Given the space to express themselves creatively, these students shine with confidence, clarity, and conviction.
MDD also fosters critical thinking, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. It keeps learners mentally alert, spiritually engaged, and socially connected, elements essential for grooming servant leaders rooted in integral ecology. This aligns perfectly with our mission of preparing youth to take up leadership in climate action, faith and community transformation.
Through school-based performances, Care for the creation Green Masses, and our Laudato Si Green Festivals, we at Laudato Youth Initiative are preparing a generation of leaders who are not only academically competent but also mentally resilient and socially responsible. These platforms have proven to be powerful tools for healing, mentorship, and mental health wellness, especially as many young people face increasing eco-anxiety and social pressure.
As we continue to grow Laudato Si’ Clubs across Uganda, we are committed to integrating mental health and MDD as a core strategy in our laudato youth leadership programs. In doing so, we amplify the voices of young people and cultivate leaders who will protect Mother Earth with creativity, confidence, and good mental health.
