Cultural exchange program concludes in La Réunion

For five days, about twenty young people from Saint-Paul, La Réunion, and fifteen from Petite-Terre participated in a cultural and community program, concluding on Friday, October 23, with emotional farewells and shared experiences.

Final gathering at the Ibis hotel

The young people from Saint-Paul and Petite-Terre met for the last time at the Ibis hotel on Friday morning, reflecting on their shared experiences and saying goodbye to one another.

Cultural performances highlight the event

The young people from La Réunion shared their culture through Creole poems and maloya music, a traditional genre of the island. This performance was followed by a joint maloya and m'biwi performance with participants from both territories and their supervisors.

Emotional reactions from the participants

The young people from La Réunion expressed their reluctance to leave, saying they had no regrets about the trip and wished to stay longer. They described the experience as deeply meaningful and transformative.

Program director reflects on the success

Roan Aubin, head of educational success in Saint-Paul, said the week surpassed expectations. He emphasized the value of the exchanges between the young people and the shift in their perceptions of each other, particularly regarding their peers in Mayotte.

Exploring new landscapes and perspectives

During the trip, the group visited Mayotte’s natural beauty, including white sand beaches and unfamiliar landscapes. Aubin noted that these experiences helped the young people see beyond the negative portrayals of Mayotte in the media.

Impact on the young people’s future

Aubin believes the effects of the program will last beyond the five-day stay, as the young people will share their experiences with their families and communities. He sees the program as a long-term investment in their future.

Program origins in inter-community dialogue

The initiative began with exchanges between educational success teams from Petite-Terre and Saint-Paul. Soffie Said Hassani, head of educational success at the CCPT, explained that professionals discussed their methods, challenges, and how to support young people effectively.

Supporting vulnerable youth through the PRE program

The educational success program (PRE) offers personalized support to young people facing academic, health, cultural, or social challenges. Participants are referred by teachers, families, or associations, and the program aims to help them regain confidence and discover their potential.

Community involvement and challenges

Chamsia Mohamed, First Vice President of the CCPT, emphasized the shared responsibility of professionals, families, and communities in supporting the young people. Despite challenges from recent natural disasters, the program currently helps 200 young people and 50 families.

Future plans and local focus

While a future trip for Petite-Terre’s youth to Saint-Paul is under consideration, the immediate focus is on helping young people in Mayotte better understand their own territory. Hassani noted that introducing them to other villages is a crucial first step for broader future projects.