Youth Connect 2023 The ‘Youth Connect’ program was held on 26^–27 August 2023. This event was a career oriented program and it emphasized on the various opportunities available and how youngsters can make the best use of them. Around 140 youngsters from various parishes participated for the same. This program began with lively animation for the youngsters by the DEXCO team. An interactive session on Interview Guidance was given by Ms. Grebian Alemao, Counselling Psychologist from Agnel’s Institute of Technology and Design, Assagao. The session was followed by performances by the youngsters based on different work scenarios and a few rare occupations. Mr. Menino Furtado delivered an informative session on preparation for banking sector exams. Subsequent sessions covered a range of topics such as ‘Table Etiquette’  by Dr. Edgar D’Souza, ‘Event Management as a business’ by Mr. Alloysius Lennon Colaco, ‘pursuing a career being a DJ’ by DJ Wency Sequeira, and ‘exploring the realm of Artificial Intelligence’ by Mr. Gilbert Anthony Mendes. The participants also engaged in an intensive Aptitude Test to identify their strengths and areas for interest which was organised by Prof. Vijay of M.A. Department of St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa which was administered by Teacher Andrea assisted by her students. A special Eucharistic Celebration with the youngsters was celebrated by Fr. Blaise during which he emphasized on the crucial questions- “Who are we and what are we supposed to do?” A youngster, Steven Fernandes shared that he learnt from the sermon ‘the importance of self-awareness and humility which contributes positively to society and it encourages youngsters to focus on their purpose and their relationship with Christ.’ The overall program encouraged youngsters to identify the hidden gem within themselves and to explore the different fields of career. Finally, in the words of a youngster who attended the programme, ‘ The event built in confidence, reinforced values, and promoted the spirit of unity amongst the attendees.’