Los Angeles, United States – January 2026 – At the Salesian Family Youth Centre in Boyle Heights, a neighbourhood on the East Side of Los Angeles, young people are empowered in many ways: by creating spaces where their voices can be heard, exposing them to new environments, walking with them in faith and training them as leaders through real-life experiences. The past week reflects how all of this comes together. For example: the Journalism Project at Bravo High School and Roosevelt High School; a visit to St Dominic Savio Parish, where they met the future leaders of Camp Savio and heard about their leadership journeys; the concert in honour of St John Bosco; community clean-up activities along Cesar Chavez Avenue; Confirmation programmes and other various initiatives. The week ended with a meeting organised by the Catholic Association of Latino Leaders, which included a dinner at the archbishop’s residence. This space fostered dialogue, connection and reflection on leadership based on faith and responsibility. At every moment – planning, writing, service, art, reflection, and leadership – the Salesian mission remains clear: to empower young people by broadening their experiences and helping their world grow. Each encounter is a step toward purpose, trust, and hope.
