In a rapidly changing world, the dynamics of family life are evolving, particularly in the Seychelles. To address these transformations and cultivate a supportive environment for families, a series of workshops titled “Reflections on the Needs of the Modern Seychellois Family” was launched. The first session coincided with the International Day of Families, marking a significant moment for meaningful dialogue on contemporary family needs.

Objectives of the Workshops

The workshops are designed to:

1. Facilitate Networking: Foster connections among families, NGOs, and governmental bodies, enabling them to share insights about modern family needs.
2. Encourage Collaboration: Promote shared responsibilities among the Ministry of Family Affairs (MDA) and NGOs to enhance family wellbeing.
3. Propose New Programs: Generate discussions and recommendations for innovative services that positively impact families.

Highlights from the First Session

The inaugural session drew participants from across various districts, including Port Glaud, La Misere, Grand Anse Mahé, Anse Boileau, Baie Lazare, Au Cap, Anse Aux Pins, Perseverance, and Mont Fleuri. This diverse attendance highlighted the universal challenges and needs faced by modern Seychellois families. The sessions were held regionally grouping the districrts of the North , Central and southern together.

Expert Contributions

The session featured several prominent speakers who offered valuable insights:

• Mrs. Fatma Bibi (NCC) addressed essential services and support for parenting, focusing on relationships within families and the various parenting styles that influence family dynamics.
• Mr. Jimmy Petrousse (C & P) spoke on the critical area of mental health, emphasizing the importance of family support systems and the services required to foster mental wellbeing.
• Mr. Marco Gerry (EDD) advocated for individuals with disabilities, underscoring the necessity for inclusive support structures to address their unique challenges.
• Dr. Julie Shamlaye enriched the discussion with her expertise on maintaining an active lifestyle, highlighting its significance for family health and cohesion.

Expanding the Dialogue

Following the success of the first session at Grand Anse session, the Minister’s Secretariat organized two additional workshops at the regional level. The Northern Region Workshop was held on August 29 at the Anse Etoile District Administration Community Centre, exploring family needs in areas such as Anse Etoile, Beau Vallon, Bel Ombre, and Glacis. The Southern Region workshop took place on September 27 at the Takamaka District Administration Community Centre, bringing together families from Takamaka, Anse Royale, Baie Lazare, and Anse Boileau.

A Platform for Change

The “Reflections on the Needs of the Modern Seychellois Family” workshops offer an essential platform for dialogue and collaboration. By bringing together experts, community members, and stakeholders, these workshops aim to ensure that the evolving needs of families are addressed effectively. As the series progressed, the insights and proposals generated will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of family services in the nation, ultimately enhancing the wellbeing of families throughout Seychelles.

This initiative represents a proactive approach to nurturing the fabric of Seychellois society, reinforcing the idea that strong families are the cornerstone of a thriving community