Our Impact Stories
Every impact has its own story. There are actions, efforts, and moments of transformation. Through these videos, we invite you to discover how our actions are making a real difference in the lives of young people and communities.
RAKOTOHARINOSY Harinesy Tsiry
Youth Representative_BEN
MORAZARA Eliso
Member of the YMCA Madagascar
From Learner to Leader
“From Learner to Leader”
RAHARIMALALA Sarobidy Larissa
S2C Cohort_VIII
” In 2023 , I had the opportunity to participate in From Subject to Citizen (S2C) Cohort VIII, a transformative leadership and self-development training provided by YMCA Madagascar. This experience challenged me to grow, think critically, and take ownership of my impact. Throughout the program, I gained invaluable lessons, including a deeper understanding of myself, improved interactions with others, stepping out of my comfort zone, adopting a positive and proactive mindset, and exploring the power of MBTI and self-branding. Taking these lessons beyond the classroom, 2024 became a year of action, during which I led social initiatives that reinforced the power of civic engagement and community-driven change. Now, in 2025, I am honored to receive my S2C Certificate. This recognition is more than just a piece of paper; it embodies resilience, hard work, and a commitment to community growth. It has served as a roadmap for my journey as a leader, and I look forward to continuing this path of impact. “
“From Learner to Leader”
Thierry RANDRIANARISON
Founder & Former Leader of Y-Movie Club
“I joined YMCA in 2016. After getting my high school diploma, I started coming to the YMCA almost every day, from Monday to Saturday. At that time, we used to meet every Saturday through English club, but we quickly realized that once a week wasn’t enough. So in 2017, we created the Y-Movie Club. It began with just a few of us. Every Wednesday, we watched movies in English, and then have discussions to learn new vocabulary and reflect on the lessons from the stories. At the same time, I joined the S2C Franchising program, Cohort 3. In 2019, I apply for the YAC (Young Advocates for Change) program, and I got selected. That opportunity took me to Kenya for 8 months as part of a cultural exchange program and honestly, one of the best experiences of my life. Through the Y-Movie Club, I had my first experience as a leader. I developed essential skills like leadership and communication, along with technical skills in graphic design and video editing. These skills later helped me get my first job in an NGO, working in the design field. Looking back, YMCA opened so many doors for me. It broadened my perspective and helped me develop an open mindset. It taught me to take every opportunity, to step out of my comfort zone, and to keep learning something new every single day. And that’s the mindset I built thanks to YMCA.”
My YMCA is ...
Each member has their own perception of the YMCA. They describe it as “home”, “stressless”, “family”… simple yet powerful words that reflect the essence of the Well-being pillar: creating a safe and supportive environment where every young person can grow, express themselves freely, and truly belong.
Beyond Borders
We are proud to showcase the journeys of our members who have taken their dreams beyond borders. Each story reflects the values of YMCA Madagascar and our deep belief that every act of commitment opens new doors to the world.
I joined YMCA in 2016. At that time, we used to meet every Saturday through English club, but we quickly realized that once a week wasn’t enough. So in 2017, we created the Y-Movie Club. It began with just a few of us. Every Wednesday, we watched movies in English, and then have discussions to learn new vocabulary and reflect on the lessons from the stories. At the same time, I joined the S2C Franchising program, Cohort 3. In 2019, I apply for the YAC (Young Advocates for Change) program, and I got selected. That opportunity took me to Kenya for 8 months as part of a cultural exchange program and honestly, one of the best experiences of my life. Through the Y-Movie Club, I had my first experience as a leader. I developed essential skills like leadership and communication, along with technical skills in graphic design and video editing. These skills later helped me get my first job in an NGO, working in the design field. Looking back, YMCA opened so many doors for me. It broadened my perspective and helped me develop an open mindset. It taught me to take every opportunity, to step out of my comfort zone, and to keep learning something new every single day. And that’s the mindset I built thanks to YMCA.
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Join us, make a difference, and start your journey today !