Each year, on February 11, Cameroon celebrates its youth.
In the weeks leading up to this celebration, schools, universities, associations of all kinds, and social organisations like the Edimar Princesse Grace Center prepare for this event, which holds great significance for them.
This year, the week of festivities, conferences, exhibitions, and activities around the theme: “Youth, maturity and responsibility for the consolidation of peace, security, economic growth and the democratic process” concluded both in urban and rural areas with the traditional February 11 parade.
THE INCLUSIVE INITIATIVE: THE PARTICIPATION OF CHILDREN IN DIFFICULTY
This year’s parade took on a special dimension, marked by an inclusive and inspiring initiative: the participation of vulnerable children in the parade. These children, often overlooked by society, had the opportunity to shine on the boulevard du 20 mai, to showcase their talents, and to remind everyone that every child deserves a place in society. A moment full of emotion and powerful symbolism.
THE COMMITMENT OF THE EDIMAR PRINCESSE GRACE CENTER
The participation of the Edimar Princesse Grace Center in the parade held on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, on the Boulevard du 20 Mai in Yaoundé, came as a result of a special invitation. This opportunity arose thanks to the initiative of a “friend” of the Center, working within the services of the Prime Minister. It was through her generous gesture that the Center was officially invited and included on the list of participants for this significant national event.
This kind and thoughtful action from our “friend” was both a call for support for vulnerable youth and an opportunity to give this at-risk population — often living in extreme precarity — a platform to express themselves, showcase their value, and reclaim a sense of belonging.
A SUSTAINABLE PROJECT SERVING VULNERABLE YOUTH
The selection of participating youth was based on free and voluntary consent. The information was shared at the Center, following literacy classes and during the Wednesday meeting that preceded the celebration. A sign-up list was circulated and also made available at the reception desk for all youth passing through the Center. This outreach extended to our second literacy center in Etoudi, as well as to our various outreach locations on the streets.
Preliminary discussions allowed the Edimar Center organizers to provide logistical support in terms of transport and meals during rehearsals, right up to the day of the ceremony.
Spectators, moved by the initiative, gave the young participants a warm and enthusiastic welcome. Applause and cheers echoed from the stands, creating an atmosphere of solidarity and compassion.
This participation was not merely symbolic — it carried a powerful message. It reminded everyone that vulnerable youth, and street children in particular, are not just statistics or societal burdens, but individuals full of dreams, talents, and immense potential. By including them in this national celebration, the Ministry of Youth and Civic Education aimed to break down stereotypes and promote collective awareness.
Despite all the challenges — including the very short preparation time and the constant mobility of the youth — this new and unprecedented experience successfully mobilized 60 young people on the day of the parade. For the Edimar Princesse Grace Center, this initiative goes beyond a one-day event; it is part of a broader, long-term project launched in 2002 by Father Maurizio Bezzi and now led by Mrs. Mireille YOGA. The project aims to offer these youth access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for social reintegration.