But the most especial moment was the special thanksgiving moment, which was celebrated in Sacro Cuore Basilica on the evening of 11th June, counting with several guests from other Salesian departments and other Salesian organisations. The Eucharistic was celebrated by Fr. Alfred Maravilla, General Councillor for the Missions, who underlined that the contribution of DBN to the Salesian missions, especially children and youth in need; and asked to be courageous not only to prepare projects but address the root causes of injustice and reinforce the advocacy actions and put Human Rights and human dignity at the core of the network.

During 11th June, DBN celebrated his General Assembly, with a deep activity report, presented by the network coordinator, Ángel Gudiña, who underline the many opportunities of cooperation with other Salesian departments that were seized in due time. As well, Peter Annegarn presented the evaluation of the second year of the Network’s strategic plan showing the board’s satisfaction with its progress. Stefano di Maria, DBN’s treasurer, presented all the financial information and the huge work done in improving.

As well, DBN members presented their most important milestones in the previous year and the changes undergone. Most of the members have grown in number of projects and funds supported, and expressed their satisfaction with the increased cooperation in the last year. A good time was devoted to reflect upon DBN membership leading into the revision, amendment and approval of DBN bylaws and internal regulations.

On 12th June, the Development Cooperation Working Group focused on reviewing the emergency response mechanism, and evaluating the coordination role that the network has, in close cooperation with Fr. Eric Mairura, from Missions’ Sector and in charge of solidarity and Emergency Response (ERM). Members are concerned about the increase of emergency response and very interested in sensitizing the provinces about Emergency preparedness and appreciated the outcomes of the ERM Task Force and the success of the first webinar on Emergency Response in America.

As well, the second part of the meeting focused on capacity building of PDOs, a priority for Don Bosco Network, as it ensures the quality of project proposals from countries in Africa, Asia and America. In Africa, VIS is taking the lead in a comprehensive programme, support by General Economer’s office in 8 provinces of the continent, while in America DBN has created a mixed group of PDOs, NGOs and RASS to provided online training for all the provinces in the region.

The last part of the meeting was focused on networking: getting to know the latest updates from Don Bosco Tech Africa, and looking for future synergies, thanks to a presentation of its director Fr. Maximus Okoro. As well, many projects were shared by the members, in which they were expecting other members’ support.

“In conclusion, a humble but highly inspiring anniversary in which we thank God for the outcomes but looked into the future with courage, and took the opportunity to dream together of increased cooperation among us” Ángel Gudiña stated.

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