When Global YMCA Leaders Meet Youth-Led Change in Madagascar

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2 weeks ago

We were honored to host the Global Staff Team (GST) in Madagascar this week, including Carlos Sanvee, Secretary General of World YMCA , Nirina Rakotomalala of YMCA Africa , Peter Dinsdale of YMCA Canada, and Juan Simoes Iglesias of YMCA Europe.

During their visit, the team had the privilege of meeting Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, Director of the Office of Grievances to the Presidency of the Republic of Madagascar, where they discussed the challenges faced by Malagasy youth, especially Generation Z, listened to young people’s aspirations and daily struggles, and explored new opportunities for collaboration and support to strengthen YMCA Madagascar’s contribution to the Vision 2030 of the global movement.

They also witnessed firsthand how YMCA Madagascar empowers its young people through programs at our Youth Power Space, helping them develop their skills, leadership, confidence, and a strong sense of community.

Reflecting on his visit, Carlos Sanvee noted that

“Beyond the metrics, we were struck by:
The maturity of their leadership. The clarity of their vision for 2030. The authenticity with which young people describe YMCA as “my power space”, “second home” and “second life”.”

He underlined that, even in a challenging political environment, YMCA Madagascar shows what becomes possible when commitment to youth is matched with strategic, locally driven action.

Read Carlos Sanvee’s full reflection here, where he shares deeper insights on the organisation’s impact, key results, and why YMCA Madagascar represents a powerful model for youth-led change: https://www.ymca.int/opinions/49569/

We are grateful for this opportunity to share our work and to deepen our connections within the global YMCA family. Together, we continue to inspire, empower, and create meaningful impact for the youth of Madagascar.