A two-day leadership camp for the Student Council members of Don Bosco High School, Matunga, on the theme ‘Lead with Hope’, commenced on July 10, 2025. The group was accompanied by Sir Nehal and Ms. Lakshmi.

Fr. Joyston Machado and Br. Royston conducted this program. The theme was seamlessly integrated into sessions that helped participants understand the various goals better.

A bus journey full of zeal led us to Bosco Wadi, Gorai, where the council members were introduced to the seven principles of being a leader. These principles found their way into an effortlessly conducted ice-breaker session. Some of the key principles were communication, not making false assumptions, and following the vision of the institution.

A Lego-brick session took place, which consisted of three roles: the builder/player, the guide/coach, and the observer/commentator. It helped the leaders reflect on a very important question: “Am I the player of my own life?” The session showed how, under the guidance of a great mentor and with control over one’s own mind, leaders can rise above negativity and lead with purpose.

Later in the evening, the group went for a long walk along the beach and paid their respects at Mother Mary’s statute on top of the hill. The group made more memories together enjoying themselves in the swimming pool.

A session inspired by the book The Six Thinking Hats by creative conversational psychological analyst Edward de Bono was conducted. Self-awareness was evoked through this session.

The night ended with skits presented by the council—split into two groups—highlighting integral leadership principles.

The following day focused on strategic planning for the current academic year.
Leaders were taken on a nature walk by the sea shore and were asked to bring one natural object that reflected their leadership qualities. Each one shared how these objects resonated with their personal leadership styles.

The VAK (Visual-Auditory-Kinesthetic) session made the participants more aware of their respective leadership behaviours. Later, they created their leadership plans for the year and brainstormed new ideas for school events.

The example of Ryan Wells, who works to enrich the lives of children in Africa by providing clean drinking water, reinforced the objective of making a difference.

A vote of thanks and tokens of appreciation were given to Fr. Joyston, and Br. Royston and the staff at Bosco Wadi for being the backbone of this event.

In conclusion, the camp proved to be an excellent platform for leaders to sharpen their life skills—not just for the academic year, but for life itself. As they step into their new roles, the leaders remain committed to carrying forward St. John Bosco’s vision and upholding what is right—for in virtue lies our true strength.