Driven by a shared dream, the Muketuri St. Joseph’s Scouts Group took the initiative to fund their own journey by preparing and selling coffee and handmade bracelets. Through their hard work and determination over several weeks, they raised enough money to embark on an unforgettable adventure.
The goal was for the Muketuri youth to visit the MCSPA mission at Mizan Teferi and experience its various outreach initiatives. These include the Lion Program (for youth aged 12 to 18 years) and the Filippos Program, which supports street children.
The days were filled with icebreakers, friendly football matches, a moving visit to the Santa Clara project for women living with leprosy, and a scenic walk to the river. The trip was also a wonderful exchange of skills: the Scouts taught the Mizan youth how to craft handmade bracelets, while the youth from Mizan taught the Scouts how to play chess.
Coming from the highlands, the youth were blown away by the lush landscape – for many, it was their very first time to see coffee, mango, orange, avocado and guava trees. For many of them, it felt like walking through paradise!
Later on, we visited the massive Bebeka Coffee Plantation, a sprawling site covering nearly 10,000 hectares. It was also a special moment for many of the young people, who had the chance to see cacao trees for the first time.
As the trip drew to a close, the youth gathered to reflect and share their impressions.
The Scouts alongside some Mexican volunteers, did a play centered on seeking God and how His plan is always unfolding in our lives. It reminded us that even when we stumble in temptation along our journey, we can always turn back to Him because He is already waiting for us.
We are deeply grateful to everyone whose support made this journey possible. Without a doubt, these young people will go on to create positive change, and this experience will leave a lasting mark on their lives.
By Tigist Mekonnen
Senior Apprentice, MCSPA
Muketuri [Ethiopia]
