The Diocesan Youth Centre – Goa, organised the ‘Nature A-Live’ program on 22nd-23rd November at Raia, Goa, bringing together 50 young participants across 40 Parishes for a meaningful and engaging nature-based experience. Centred on the theme of ‘Protecting Marine Life’, the programme aimed to create awareness about Goa’s rich marine biodiversity and the importance of conserving it.
Resource persons Ms. Gabriella D’cruz, a Marine Conservationist and Mr. Nester Fernandes, a Marine Biologist and Ecologist, enlightened on marine life, various marine species, their habitats, and the challenges affecting ocean health. The resource person Mr. Peter Cardozo, a Pisciculturist, currently doing business of fish farming in the village of Curtorim, explained the fish farming business, with hands-on exposure to aquaculture practices and highlighted the role of sustainable fish farming in supporting local livelihoods and biodiversity.
A key attraction of the programme was the serene Mass celebrated on the hill at dawn, creating a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience for the youth as they welcomed a new day. Evening at the campfire was filled with warmth and friendship that brought participants together for conversations, reflections, and group activities. Youngsters also engaged in fun-filled activities including group performances around the campfire.
The Nature A-Live program was a combination of learning, outdoor adventure, and community bonding, that offered our youth a memorable opportunity to reconnect with the marine life and to experience to see Goa’s Nature come A-live.