FSY 2025: Open communication with parents is key to youth wellbeing - Datt

Children should be able to freely express their feelings to their parents and vice versa, as well as share their life experiences.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Suva Fiji Stake Presidency Second Counsellor, Naveen Datt highlighted this during Day 3 of the For the Strength of the Youth 2025 – Look Unto Christ Conference currently being held at Church College Fiji.

Datt says that throughout the programme, youth are attending classes designed to strengthen their faith, character, and personal development.

He adds that one of the key topics that he and his wife taught the youth was communication, within the church, at home, and in their personal spiritual lives.

Datt says the youth are being guided on how to communicate respectfully and openly with their parents, church leaders, teachers, and with Heavenly Father through prayer.

He explains that special attention is also given to addressing social challenges and resolving issues within the family unit.

The theme of this year’s FSY is Looking Unto Christ, with a strong focus on helping youth draw closer to Jesus Christ while becoming good, responsible, and law-abiding citizens.

Datt also emphasised that the programme aims to nurture future leaders who are grounded in strong values, faith, and service.

He also acknowledges the importance of cultural respect in iTaukei society, where young people often find it difficult to openly share their concerns with their parents.

While respect remains a core value, youth are encouraged to speak up with confidence and honesty.

Datt says church leaders believe that open communication can help prevent serious issues such as depression, suicide, and youth drifting away from the Church.

He adds that during the sessions, many youth shared personal experiences and learned how to express themselves respectfully while maintaining cultural values.

Datt also shared personal insights from his own family, explaining how he taught his daughters to be strong and confident women.

He emphasises the importance of choosing life partners who are strong in faith, values, responsibility, and self-reliant, while also teaching young men to respect and honour women.

Insert: Datt thanked Parents 17th Dec

As FSY 2025 continues, leaders hope that each participant will return home having taken one step closer to the Saviour, Jesus Christ.