By Peter Serete | Program Coordinator
The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) workshop was successfully held at Chepyuk primary school in Mt. Elgon from 15th to 17th April 2026. The workshop brought together young drawn from more creating a rich and diverse learning environment for fellowship, growth, and peacebuilding.
The workshop focused on equipping youth with practical tools for peaceful living, leadership, and conflict transformation. Key topics covered included:
The workshop used participatory methods such as group discussions, role plays, energizers, games, and reflection sessions. These methods enabled participants to actively engage with the learning process and share experiences from their various meetings.
One of the key outcomes of the training was the strong spirit of unity developed among the youths despite coming from different cultural and geographical backgrounds. Participants reported gaining new confidence, deeper understanding of nonviolence, and practical skills they can take back to their local meetings, schools, and communities.
The workshop also created an opportunity for networking among youth and strengthened relationships across the Mt. Elgon region. Many participants expressed commitment to becoming ambassadors of peace and promoting reconciliation wherever they serve.
We extend sincere gratitude to our supporters for the continued support of youth empowerment and peacebuilding initiatives. Appreciation also goes to the facilitators, organizers, and Chepyuk Peace Centre for hosting the event successfully.
The AVP workshop was impactful and timely, and we believe the seeds planted in these young leaders will continue to bear fruit in the society and the wider community.
Testimonies from the participants
The workshop had a deep and lasting impact on participants, as reflected in their personal testimonies. Many shared how the key topics of affirmation, communication, cooperation, trust building, and creative conflict resolution transformed their thinking and attitudes.
Several participants expressed readiness to share the knowledge gained with others. One participant said, “The workshop has sharpened my life, and I am ready to go and share this knowledge.” Another added, “I am going back to the community fully transformed by this training.” This shows the workshop empowered young people to become peace ambassadors in their communities.
Gratitude toward Transforming Community for Social Change was strongly felt. One participant remarked, “Thank you TCSC for considering me to be part of this family.” This reflected appreciation for the opportunity to grow and connect with other youths.
Leadership challenges were also addressed during the training. One participant shared, “I came to this training stressed about my leadership in my church, but now I have gained skills on how to handle those challenges.” This demonstrates how AVP equips participants with practical leadership and problem-solving tools.
The session on Transforming Power (TP) had a powerful influence on many. One participant said, “My thoughts about the community have changed. I will now look at things differently by using the Transforming Power.” Another added, “Transforming Power is going to use me to serve the community because I had the inner light in me, but I feared using it.”
The affirmation sessions helped build self-confidence and self-worth. One participant testified, “I have been shy to stand in front of an audience, but after the affirmation session, I now believe in myself.” Another reflected, “I did not know I could change and become a better person, but through AVP I have learned a lot.”
Communication and listening skills were another key area of growth. One participant confessed, “I had problems with listening skills. I used to overthink and make judgments before listening, but I am happy I have been educated.” Another added, “The Transforming Power working in me now is to listen before making judgment and to trust my inner sense of when to act.”
The workshop also inspired emotional growth and reconciliation. One participant said, “I came in quick to anger and always looking down on others. This experience has taught me to reach for the good in others.” Another courageously shared, “Last week I had a conflict with my friends and ended up fighting one of them. From here, I regret what I did, and I will trace my friend and apologize.”
Overall, these testimonies show that the workshop was life-changing, equipping participants with skills to transform themselves and positively impact their communities
By Peter Serete | Program Coordinator
By Peter Serete | Program Coordinator
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