The YPG stands for Youth Power Group; this is a group in the church that encourages all between the ages of 16 – 30s to join. Our aim in the group is to work with the Youth helping them to be all that God has called them to be.
Our youths come from varied backgrounds, which means one-size does not fit all in our approach to events. We endeavour to have an inclusive approach to everything we do. For instance when the youth debate a topic, we permit Pidgin English to be used; removing the barrier for those who are unable or uncomfortable with expressing themselves in English.
Why Debate?
It would be mistake to think that Nigerian youths don’t have a view on contemporary issues that affect them or those around them; so we often give topics to each tribe a week in advance; so there is time to prepare.
We have found in the last 12 months that, youths who are ordinarily very shy, by taking part in the debates; have gradually come out their shell. There is a case of 15 year old girl, who would rather run and hide than introduce herself to her peers within the YPG; by December 2011 she took part in a debate adding valuable points to her tribe.
This is just one of many examples of cases where youths have found an avenue to express themselves within a safe environment.
2 Tribes at War
Competition is a fact of life in the world, so we split the youths into 2 tribes (based 12 tribes of Israel); create a competitive environment for all tasks undertaken at the youth meetings.
All tasks (regular attendance, number of attendees per tribe, debate, singing competitions, dancing competitions and Quizzes etc.) carry points, so each participant strives to earn to most points for their tribe. A team spirit naturally evolves, all hands required to contribute to make a difference.
On Sunday 18th December 2011, we had our YPG end of year event.
The aim of the event was to reward the yearlong efforts of the youths that have shown commitment, consistency, leadership, dedication and the spirit of excellence in 2011.
The event was attended by over many youths. Prizes were awarded for:
- Best Tribe of 2011
- Most Committed YPG Member of 2011
- Most Valued Contribution to YPG in 2011
- Showing the Most Leadership in 2011
- Most Attendance at YPG Meeting in 2011
The event was a success, food, drink and sporting events took place; closing with awards and a spiritual message from Pastor Daniel.