The DMF Launches Program with Young People
Building a Bridge to the Future
The DMF Launches Program with Young People-By Rev. Levi Williams
The Distant Members Fellowship (DMF) is building a bridge to the future by empowering its young members. This initiative began during the 2024 General Assembly when Sis. Nana Kpaan-Allison noted the absence of young people in Fellowship events. Inspired by this observation, King Teewon Dolopei and Queen Cecelia Kai saw an opportunity to organize the young members and nurture their growth.
The DMF’s youth initiative took shape through collaborative planning and discussions. A key planning session in early 2025 united leaders and young people, sparking ideas and enthusiasm. This momentum culminated in the launch of “Bridging the Gap – A Royal Initiative” on February 16, 2025.
The launch event of “Bridging the Gap – A Royal Initiative” was a resounding success, with young people playing key roles. They served as emcees, led prayers, read scripture, and actively participated in the program. A highlight was a Bible game organized by Dave Gondoun, which drew enthusiastic participation.
Queen Cecelia Dunn-Kai welcomed attendees and shared the initiative’s origin story, highlighting her and King Teewon Dolopei’s vision to unite and nurture the Fellowship’s young people.
The launch program featured:
1. A video showcasing young people’s introductions and aspirations
2. A PowerPoint presentation by Samory Fonderson outlining the program’s details
The program is designed for youth (16-23) and young adults (24-30), with a mission to:
– Empower DMF members’ children to become active participants
– Foster personal growth, leadership, and community building
This initiative formally recognizes young people as vital to the Fellowship. Young Fonderson then outlined the program’s vision, which includes developing stronger bonds, nurturing a vital community, and bridging the generational gap. The program’s objectives include leadership development, college preparation, and fostering healthy relationships.
The program will be implemented in two phases. The first phase will focus on relationship building, while the second phase will emphasize mentorship and career development.
The program’s benefits include encouraging participation in Fellowship activities, providing a safe platform for self-expression, and fostering respectful interaction.
To implement the objectives, three events are proposed for 2025:
1. Lunch and Learn (early April)
2. Back-to-School program (August)
3. Graduation program (end of the academic year)
There was an overview of a proposed organizational structure. The group of youth and young adults will be self-governing, with biennial elections of core officers. There will also be three committees: a Program/Activities Committee, a Spiritual Committee, and a Membership/Networking Committee. The King and Queen of the Fellowship will provide supervision and guidance to the group. WhatsApp and Instagram groups will be formed, in addition to the introduction of a newsletter.
A question-and-answer session followed, after which various leaders and eminent persons of the Fellowship made remarks and shared their vision for the initiative and its role in the Fellowship. The chairperson of the Program Committee, Florence Fonderson, expressed profound gratitude to the young people for organizing and participating in the program.
The future of the DMF shines brightly, anchored by a bridge of innovation and unity. The ‘Bridging the Gap’ initiative has ignited a beacon of hope, showcasing the power of collective vision and youthful energy. With its strong foundation and limitless potential, the DMF is poised to reach new heights, forging a brighter tomorrow for generations to come.”
