PANAJI: The Diocesan Youth Centre organised the ‘Nature A-Live’ programme at Raia on November 22-23, Goa, bringing together 50 young participants across 40 parishes for a meaningful and engaging nature-based experience. Centred on the theme of ‘Protecting Marine Life’, the programme aimed to create awareness about Goa’s rich marine biodiversity and the importance of conserving it.
Resource persons, Gabriella D’Cruz, a marine conservationist, and Nester Fernandes, a marine biologist and ecologist, enlightened participants on marine life, various marine species, their habitats, and the challenges affecting ocean health.
The resource person, Peter Cardozo, a pisciculturist currently doing fish farming in the village of Curtorim, explained the fish farming business, with hands-on exposure to aquaculture practices, and highlighted the role of sustainable fish farming in supporting local livelihoods and biodiversity.
A key attraction of the programme was the serene Mass celebrated on the hill at dawn, creating a peaceful and spiritually uplifting experience for the youth as they welcomed a new day.
The evening at the campfire was filled with warmth and friendship that brought participants together for conversations, reflections, and group activities. Youngsters also engaged in fun-filled activities, including group performances around the campfire.
The Nature A-Live programme was a combination of learning, outdoor adventure, and community bonding that offered the youth a memorable opportunity to reconnect with marine life and experience Goa’s nature come alive.
