Young People are Key to the Future: A Strong Message on Inclusive Leadership

Pangkalpinang, VIVA – Young people are being encouraged to emerge as future leaders who are not only strong in terms of organisation, but also possess social awareness and the ability to build cross-sectoral collaboration. This was highlighted at the opening of the Advanced Leadership Training (KKL I) for Pemuda Katolik 2026, held at the Grand Safran Hotel, Pangkalpinang. The event carries the theme of “Inclusive and Collaborative Leadership in Supporting Sustainable Regional Development and Economic Acceleration.” A total of 107 participants from 20 provinces took part in this cadre-building forum. The event began with an Eucharistic Celebration led by the Bishop of Pangkalpinang, Mgr. Adrianus Sunarko, OFM, along with a number of church figures and youth organisation mentors. In his homily, Mgr. Sunarko emphasised that the leadership model taught by Jesus stemmed from a process of mentoring, service, and exemplary behaviour, rather than the domination of power. “After Jesus died, the disciples scattered. Peter returned to being a fisherman and was followed by the other disciples. They felt they had lost hope,” said the Secretary General of KWI, on Friday, 15 May 2026. He affirmed that the process of forming the apostles actually emerged from the experience of falling and getting up, which then shaped them into leaders who were ready to serve and bear witness. “The leadership training of the apostles began with their experience with Jesus. They were formed not to compete for power, but to serve and bring hope,” he said. This message became the main foundation in the implementation of KKL I this year, which emphasises the importance of young leadership that is inclusive, collaborative, and sensitive to social issues in the community. Chairman of Pemuda Katolik, Stefanus Gusma, said that this activity is an important space in preparing leaders who are ready to contribute to the nation. “Pemuda Katolik has the motto Pro Ecclesia et Patria, for the Church and the nation. Therefore, we are ready to support development and collaborate with all parties,” said Gusma. He added that the current development challenges require a collaborative approach involving many parties, including the government, the business world, and youth organisations. “Pemuda Katolik cadres must be present as drivers of social and economic development in their respective regions,” he said. Meanwhile, Deputy Head of BP BUMN, Aminudin Ma’ruf, highlighted the need for a wider space for young entrepreneurs and MSMEs to grow.