Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo in Busan, South Korea
Zimbabwean delegate Colonel Miniyothabo Baloyi-Chiwenga has hailed the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) for shaping a generation of principled, resilient and visionary young leaders, describing the organisation as a beacon of hope in a world yearning for unity, peace and moral leadership.
Addressing more than 20 000 delegates from across the globe at the official opening ceremony of the 2026 IYF World Camp in Busan, South Korea, on Sunday, Baloyi-Chiwenga challenged young people to embrace integrity, character and a renewed mindset as they prepare to become tomorrow’s global leaders.
The atmosphere inside the packed venue was electric as thousands of young people from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East waved their national flags, sang in celebration and embraced one another in a powerful display of international friendship.
The annual gathering, one of the world’s largest youth leadership camps, has transformed Busan into a melting pot of cultures, languages and ideas, with participants spending the next week exchanging knowledge, showcasing their cultures and undergoing intensive mindset and leadership training.
“It is a profound honour and a great privilege to stand before you today at the official opening of the 2026 IYF World Camp in the beautiful city of Busan,” said Col Baloyi-Chiwenga.
“On behalf of the Government and the people of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Founder of the International Youth Fellowship, directorship together with the organising committee, for their gracious invitation and warm hospitality.”
She praised the International Youth Fellowship for investing in young people through character development, volunteerism and mindset education, saying such initiatives were essential in producing leaders capable of transforming communities.
“I also wish to commend the International Youth Fellowship and its dedicated leadership for their remarkable work in empowering young people and transforming communities across the world. Your unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders through character development, mindset education and global fellowship is truly inspiring,” she said.
Turning to the thousands of delegates filling the arena, she urged them to seize every opportunity presented by the World Camp.
“To the more than 20 000 young people gathered here today, you represent the promise of a brighter and more peaceful future. Learn from one another, celebrate your diverse cultures and build friendships that transcend borders. The relationships you establish here will become bridges between nations.”
Col Baloyi-Chiwenga said the mindset education pioneered by IYF president Moon Taek Park had become a powerful tool in equipping young people to overcome adversity and emerge as leaders of integrity.
“I am confident that you will return to your respective countries as ambassadors of hope, peace and positive transformation,” she said.
She also expressed admiration for South Korea’s remarkable development, saying she looked forward to experiencing more of the country’s rich culture, innovation and hospitality.
Earlier, IYF President Moon Taek Park officially welcomed delegates from around the world, saying the World Camp had become a life-changing platform where young people discover not only different cultures but also themselves.
He said the event was built on the belief that genuine change begins with a transformed mindset.
“Our greatest hope is to see young people overcome limitations, challenge themselves and develop hearts that can understand and embrace others,” he said.
Mr Moon encouraged delegates to fully participate in the camp’s leadership lectures, mindset education sessions, cultural performances, music concerts, academies and volunteer programmes, saying the experience would inspire them long after they returned home.
“The friendships you build here and the lessons you learn will become valuable assets throughout your lives. We hope every participant leaves Busan with a new vision, a stronger heart and a desire to make a positive difference in society,” he said.
Founded by renowned Christian educator Rev Dr Ock Soo Park, the International Youth Fellowship has grown into one of the world’s leading youth organisations, with programmes operating in more than 90 countries.
Through its signature mindset education philosophy, leadership development initiatives, volunteer service and international cultural exchanges, IYF continues to inspire millions of young people to become responsible global citizens.
This year’s World Camp has attracted more than 20,000 delegates representing scores of countries, making it one of the largest international youth gatherings on the global calendar. Over the coming days, participants will engage in leadership forums, mindset education, cultural exchange programmes, music festivals, academy classes and networking sessions designed to foster unity, mutual understanding and global cooperation.
