JCI City Plus - City Buzz Newsletter - November 2023 - Issue 35

JCI City Plus Newsletter

We are what we repeatedly do.

Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.

- Will Durant

November 2023 | Issue 35

CITY BUZZ

THIS EDITION IN CITY BUZZ Issue 35 • November 2023 01. Editor's Message

#03

02. 2023 JCI City Plus Local President’s Message

#04

03. 2023 JCI City Board Members

#05

04. Announcements & Projects

#06

05. JCI Family Fun Day Initiation to Golf

#07

06. JCI City Plus Recruitment Campaign 2023

#08

07. My Mandala Workshop

#09 - 10

08. Testimonial

#11 - 12

09. Four faces of women - Testimonial of Project Director

#13 - 14

10. Four faces of women - Testimonials of Participants

#15

11. Expérience Jeune Chambre à l’Île Maurice

#16

12. 2023 JCI Mauritius Creative Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony

#17

13. Speed Networking

#18

14. Sweet 16 Anniversary of JCI City Plus

#19

15. 2023 JCI AMESA Sumit

#20

16. Save the Dates

#21

17. Celebrations - Birthdays (July - October)

#22 - 23

18. Graduation

#24

Editing Team: Editor in Chief: Gooshma Kissoondoyal Team Members: Keshina Aurtaram and Gawree Ballgobin

You don’t get any medal for trying something, you get medals for results."

-Bill Parcells

Editors’ Message

Dear JCI Members and Readers, In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Junior Chamber International (JCI), we are presented with a unique opportunity to reflect upon and celebrate two essential aspects of our journey: the present theme "Engage with Excellence" and the forthcoming motto, "Rise and Shine." Both of these concepts are intrinsically connected, as they epitomize the essence of good leadership and the power of empowering people to be a better version of themselves.

In the pages of this issue, you'll discover stories of JCI members who have exemplified excellence in their leadership journeys, sparking change and transformation in their communities. You'll read about initiatives and projects that have harnessed the power of collective engagement to create meaningful impact. These stories serve as a testament to the fact that when we engage with excellence, we empower ourselves and others to reach new heights of achievement.

Now, as we look forward to the motto for the upcoming year, "Rise and Shine," we see a natural progression from "Engage with Excellence." This motto encourages us to build on the foundations of leadership and empowerment. It invites us to rise above challenges and shine brightly as beacons of inspiration. It speaks to our potential to make a lasting and positive mark on the world In our ever-growing and diverse JCI family, we are fortunate to have the power to lead and empower on a global scale. The themes of "Engage with Excellence" and "Rise and Shine" remind us of the immense potential within our organization to foster good leadership and create a supportive environment for personal growth and development.

Thank you for your dedication, commitment, and the outstanding leadership you bring to JCI. Your journey of empowering others to be better versions of themselves is not just commendable; it's what propels our organization forward.

Wish you a pleasant reading Editor in Chief Gooshma Kissoondoyal Page 03

MESSAGE FROM 2023 JCI City Plus Local President Vanshinee Bhirugnath Dear Readers,

“A leader is a dealer in hope.” Napoleon Bonaparte, military leader

Upon contemplating my “one year to lead” days, I ask myself, How do I be a better leader now and what I need to learn more?

My main goals for 2023 were to start holding regular meetings with the board members to exchange ideas and discuss how to launch projects, address how to navigate changes to attract more new members, or work toward defining a new strategy and plan of action. Lastly, I wanted to focus on how to inspire the members to get involved and encourage participation.

What is Heart First Leadership?

Heart First Leadership is defined as championing empathy, humanity and authenticity to build stronger, more trusting relationships and a thriving, purpose-driven organisation.

One of the first things that come to mind when we talk about Heart First is many of the open and clear conversations you have with your members and other leaders of to understand what needs to be done.

Leaders often believe they must be prepared with solutions and project confidence, but facing difficulties and barriers can lead to accepting their true power and connection. This involves maintaining authenticity, sharing knowledge, and asking for help. By adopting a Heart First approach, leaders can achieve greater engagement, retention, and results. This approach empowers others, gives direction, and encourages personal goals.

In addition to all the amazing people who have stepped forward with a helping hand, a generous heart, and a positive mindset to help make this year 2023 successful and impactful for us.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my mentors, guides, board members, members, sponsors, and stakeholders who believed in us and our projects.

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things.

He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.”

Yours in JCI spirit, Vanshinee Bhirugnath 2023 Local President JCI City Plus

– President Ronald Reagan

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2023 JCI City Plus

BOARD MEMBERS

Vanshinee Bhirugnath 2023 JCI City Plus Local President

Ben Venkatakistnen

2023 JCI City Plus Immediate Past President

Aklesh Seebooa

Ravi Soobraydoo

2023 JCI City Plus Local Treasurer

2023 JCI City Plus Local Secretary

Zabeen Jareehag

Arvind Aurtaram

Patsy How Yin Fat

Keshina Aurtaram

2023 JCI City Plus Local Vice President - Community Development

2023 JCI City Plus Local Vice President Business & Entrepreneurship

2023 JCI City Plus Local Vice President -

2023 JCI City Plus Local Vice President PR & International

Skills Development

Page 05

LOCAL, NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS THIRD QUARTER JCI Family Fun Day Initiation to Golf JCI City Plus Recruitment Campaign 2023 My Mandala workshop Testimonials Four faces of women - Testimonial of Project Director Four faces of women - Testimonials of Participants Expérience Jeune Chambre à l’Île Maurice 2023 JCI Mauritius Creative Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony Speed Networking Training Sweet 16 Anniversary of JCI City Plus 2023 JCI AMESA Sumit Save the Dates Celebrations - Birthdays (July - October) Graduation

JCI FAMILY FUN DAY INITIATION TO GOLF The JCI City Plus organised a Family Fun Day at Avalon Golf Estate of initiation to golf on the 13th August 2023. The day started with a members meeting where important information was shared, followed by a delicious breakfast. The lunch provided an opportunity for members to mingle and network with each other.

The highlight of the event was the golf lessons, where members were divided into small groups and received personalised attention from experienced instructors. Members were able to try their hand at various golf skills and receive feedback on their performance.

The day ended with a gathering at the bar, where the local president and project director gave a heartfelt thankyou speech to all participants. Overall, the event was a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The JCI City Plus successfully organised a fun day of initiation to golf that not only introduced members to the sport but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and personal growth.

Project Director Patsy How Yin Fat

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JCI CITCYamPpaLigUn S 2023

Recruitment

JCI City Plus has organized a recruitment campaign on the 19th August 2023 during the YALI SME EXPO in Flacq Coeur de Ville Shopping mall. Our main objective was to increase our visibility and attract new aspiring members to join our organization.

To effectively communicate our mission, teams, goals, and activities, we published brochures sponsored by Happy Eater, Patsy Boutique, and Digital Ratz. These brochures served as informative resources and were made available to the public. In addition to the brochures, the organising team also organised the distribution of cookies and muffins. This gesture aimed to engage the public.

The combination of our sponsored brochures and the offering of snacks allowed us to effectively communicate our message and increase our visibility during the YALI SME EXPO. Project Director Patsy How Yin Fat

Page 08

JCI City Plus

MY MANDALA WORKSHOP

Project Director - Kamini Ramjeet In line with our Mental Health series – JCI City plus organized a Free Mandala Painting Workshop for the public, with our expert Mandala meditation and yoga coach, Miss Asha Jeenia on the 30th of September at the Bagatelle Mall.

Despite being a fairly new technique in Mauritius, the public positively acclaimed this initiative with all four sessions fully booked. Ms Asha launched the sessions with a few minutes of mindful breathworks and invited participants to perform a check on their present emotions from anger, sadness, happiness and love. From there, an intention had to be set up – a journey from the present emotion to the desired emotion which shall be expressed through circles, lines and colours. She further explained with much patience the link between Mandalas and the human being, where the pivot of the drawing represents our soul and each layers of added drawings reflects our connection with the universe. Therefore, while unleashing our creativity, we are at the same time releasing pent up emotions.

If some expressed no big expectations from this workshop in the beginning or showed up simply out of curiosity, their reactions drastically changed after completing it – “I was proud of myself”, “Uplifted!”, “From feeling a bit low, I felt more relaxed and calm” etc. Despite the time constraint and external noises, people were really absorbed in their drawings.

Out of 40, only 5 were interested to really learn about Mandala painting as in painting techniques whereas others clearly mentioned their expectations of finding peace, healing, relaxation and calmness which clearly demonstrates the need for more practices and outlets in Mauritius to achieve a better mental health. Mandala drawing which is considered a psychotherapy technique with multiple clinically proven benefits such as reducing stress, treating depression, aiding in grief and anger management and overcoming addictions such as drugs, proves to be an undeniable tool in shaping a healthy community whereby empowering leaders of tomorrow.

Page 09

MY MANDALA WORKSHOP PICTURES

Page 10

TESTIMONIALS National Vice President Nabiil Bhankarally "I am delighted to have participated in the mandala-painting workshop organised by Ms Asha Aakriti. Initially, I was feeling a range of emotions at the same time. After attending the event, I was able to better express, understand and control them through the calming and soothing effect of mandalapainting.Having got the opportunity to learn more about their deeper meanings, I encourage others to engage into this purposeful activity in order to explore their own creativity, emotions as well as their inner worlds.”

Asha Jeenia’s (Mandala Meditation and Yoga Coach) “I feel immensely blessed and grateful collaborating with JCI CITY PLUS for the Mandala Painting Workshop.

Why Mandala meditation & benefits: Creating mandalas is soothing to the soul! It is the answers to the inquisitive mind, calming the monkey mind, reducing anxiety and stress! It transcends time making you travel to the core of your Being, having clarity and self love. If you believe in all that you create, starting from your thoughts, you can manifest anything, for thoughts, become things! Trust the powers of your mind & heart. Thank you for sharing this opportunity to the public”

Other participants’ Feedback “I was feeling low and confused in the beginning. After the session, I was amazed of how I was feeling relaxed and composed. Truly transformative”.

“There was like a surge of energy in me suddenly, like I felt revitalized just like magic”

Page 11

DEEYA SEECHURN (MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLOR) ANDREA LODGE “Hosting a talk for JCI City Plus was such an incredible experience as I felt the interest of the team present, and their engagement via their questions and sharing. The organisation was professionally done, and highlighted the importance of mental wellbeing, especially in a society where stress, anxiety and depression, amongst others, are becoming the norm.

According to the World Health Organisation, "there is no health without mental health.

My aim as a Mental Health Counsellor is to create sharing spaces, support systems and give access to tool so that people can better manage their mental health.”

Page 12

Testimonials

FOUR FACES OF WOMEN

First Session Women entrepreneurship is vital for economic growth, but it is also powerful weapon in the fight against domestic violence. The enhanced self - esteem and financial independence gained through entrepreneurship can empower women, offering an escape route from gender abuse. And as the food business fulfils a basic human need, ensuring a consistent demand, the Four Faces of Women project launched its first culinary session at the Village Council of Baie du Tombeau with Chef Shenaz Khodabocus. The first session was successful and very interactive, where the women learned to cook easy but creative dishes using affordable ingredients.

Page 13

Testimonials

FOUR FACES OF WOMEN

Second Session The second cooking session was in collaboration with Chef Arvind Aurtaram, owner of Mister Vegas and 2023 Local Vice President - Business and Entrepreneurship of JCI City Plus. Chef Arvind presented to the women the ‘fried cassava with homemade mayonnaise,’ a delicious ‘gadjack’ who could sell well a as a substitute of French fries, but not widely marketed in Mauritius yet. The long-term objective of the project is to provide to those vulnerable women the culinary skills and an entrepreneurial mindset, so that they can build a profitable venture through the catering business.

Page 14

TESTIMONIALS FROM PARTICIPANTS Article by Project Director Sabrina Rasolonjatovo

Anaclette Louis (Project participant) I am interested in becoming a caterer and I have I learned so much through the cooking sessions. I hope there will be more sessions in the future. Thank you to JCI City Plus for what they are doing for us here at Bay du Tombeau. I think that if we stay motivated, what we learned will be helpful for me and for the other women who wants to start a business in the food industry.

Berty Genave (2023 President of the Village Council of Tombeau Bay The village council of Tombeau Bay is pleased with the collaboration with JCI city plus and hope that this collaboration will continue, as considering the environment in which the women here are living, they need help and support. This community project has great potential, but it is going to be a hard work and it will take time. The village council will always be here to welcome and support JCI in what they are doing.

Fleurette Claire (Project participant and 2023 board member of the Village Council of Tombeau Bay) I already have my own business my own business but I'm finding myself short of finance at the moment. I would like to thank the JCI team for organising a session with SME Mauritius to explain to us the financing possibilities available. Now I know that my business is eligible to receive financial aid from SME. I also appreciated the emotional education that the team gave us at the very first session, because we really need it to be able to move forward and face life problems.

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EXPÉRIENCE JEUNE CHAMBRE À L’ÎLE MAURICE Lors de mon déplacement à l’Île Maurice, du 14 juillet au 5 août 2023, en tant que formateur,

j’ai

tenu

à

rencontrer

les

membres de la Jeune Chambre Internationale pour former sur 2 formations du catalogue de la Jeune Chambre Economique Française : “La trilogie de la fourmi” et “Osez le Succès”.

La Jeune Chambre Economique du Grand Sud, de son côté, à souhaité officialiser ses bonnes pratiques d’échanges en mettant en place un jumelage qui sera signé en fin d’année au congrès mondial 2023 à Zurich.

Une expérience très enrichissante avec de belles rencontres.

Tonio Baracchini Secretaire General Fédération Océan Indien

Page 16

02nd September 2023

By Project Director, Aklesh Seebooa

2023 JCI MAURITIUS CREATIVE YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARD CEREMONY The 2023 JCI Mauritius Creative Young Entrepreneur Award Ceremony, held on the 2nd of September, was a night to remember as it celebrated innovation and ambition in the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape of Mauritius. The event was graced by the presence of the Vice-President, His Excellency Mr. Eddy Boissezon, adding prestige to an already exciting evening.

The ceremony, co-hosted by JCI City Plus (Mauritius), took place at the picturesque Le Jadis Resort, setting the stage for an inspiring gathering of young entrepreneurs who are changing the face of business in Mauritius. The evening was a tribute to the creativity and determination of these visionary individuals who have embarked on remarkable entrepreneurial journeys.

HIGHLIGHTS

THANK YOU NOTE

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the winners. Vishesh Gangaram, the owner of Everbloom, took the top spot in the Agriculture sector, demonstrating his dedication to sustainable and innovative farming practices. His success is not only a testament to his hard work but also reflects his commitment to addressing the global challenges of food security and climate change.

The success of the event was made possible by the generous support of several partners, including the Commission de l'océan Indien - Indian Ocean Commission, SBM Bank Mauritius, Development Bank of Mauritius Ltd, Taylor Smith Group, Covertech, Magellan.mu, SME Mauritius Ltd, Digital Ratz, MBN Mauritius, GWS Technologies, MisterrVegas, Startup Moris, Antee Mewa Training & Consultancy Services, Oxenham, and Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness Mauritius. Their support exemplifies the importance of collaboration and mentorship in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Fabrice Hau Teen Yee, the owner of Exeqia Technology Mauritius, secured the 1st Runner-Up position in the Digital Marketing - Web Agency sector. His prowess in the digital marketing realm reflects the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry and his determination to excel in it.

Mujahid Emambokus, the owner of Morivert, was awarded 2nd Runner-Up in the Waste Upcycling sector.

His commitment to environmental sustainability and waste management is not only commendable but also showcases the potential for economic growth in the circular economy.

The 2023 JCI Mauritius Creative Young Entrepreneur event demonstrated the power of innovation and entrepreneurship, providing a platform for young talents to shine and make a positive impact on their communities and the world. The event serves as a reminder of the vital role that creativity and innovation play in driving economic growth and solving the challenges of our time.

Congratulations to all the participants and winners for their outstanding achievements.

Page 17

SPEED NETWORKING MAIN SPEAKERS: MR. VISHESH GANGARAM & MR. MUJAHIB EMAMBOKUS

10TH SEPTEMBER 2023

SPEED NETWORKING VENUE: MISTERR VEGAS

In a remarkable showcase of entrepreneurial talent, Mr. Vishesh Gangaram emerged as the winner of the 2023 JCI Mauritius Creative Young Entrepreneur competition. His innovative approach and unwavering determination impressed the judges, securing his victory. Meanwhile, Mujahideen Emambokus claimed the second runner-up position, further showcasing the immense talent on display.

Both entrepreneurs exhibited their commitment to fostering success among the youth by sharing their experience during a "speed networking" training session. During the session, they shared valuable insights and strategies for success as young entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of networking and collaboration in the dynamic business world.

Their inspiring journey and dedication to mentorship left a lasting impact, serving as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs in Mauritius.

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Sweet 16

ANNIVERSARY

15th Sept 2023

Anniversary & Birthday Celebration On September 15, 2023, the vibrant city of JCI City Plus celebrated a momentous occasion, marking both its 16th anniversary and Senator Veena Langur's birthday. The event was a testament to the community's dedication to civic engagement and social impact. Founded 16 years ago, JCI City Plus has grown into a dynamic force for positive change, fostering leadership, and community development.

Senator Veena Langur's birthday added a special touch to the celebration, highlighting the importance of leadership in public service. The event not only brought together the city's residents but also served as a reminder of the collective power of individuals to shape a better future.

Page 19

2023 JCI AMESA SUMIT Senate President Ashveena Mewa, Senator Ryad Subratty, and Senator Franchette Emilien made a notable mark at the 2023 JCI AMESA Summit in Sun City, South Africa, by proudly representing Mauritius. Their presence not only showcased their commitment to global leadership but also raised the Mauritian flag high in the international arena.

As delegates at the summit, they engaged in discussions on critical issues, fostering international collaboration and sharing insights with fellow leaders from Africa, the Middle East, and South America. Their participation underscores Mauritius' dedication to positive change and the importance of active engagement on a global stage, reflecting their country's values and ambitions.

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SAVE THE DATES Four Faces of Women - Last Session

11 November 2023

Speed Networking

22 November 2023

Induction Training

25 November 2023

Heal to Lead

26 November 2023

Zenfans Lespwar

02 December 2023

JCI Day

11 December 2023

Members Meeting, Celebration & Recognition

16 December 2023

“Goals are dreams with deadlines.”– Diana Scharf

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BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Member

Member

2023 Local Treasurer

Jaayaluxmi Coomaren

Varsha Boodhool

Aklesh Seebooa

Member

Member

Member

Shreya Ramma-Gutty

Gooshma Kissoondoyal

Alisha Hingun

2021 Local President

2015 Local President, 2018 National President & Senator

Founder , Senate Secretary 2023 & Senator

Roumesh Oomah

Veena Langur

Chrisinta Chavrimootoo

Page 22

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Senator

Member

Usha Beeharry

Dalini Servansingh

2010 Local President, 2013 National President & Senator Jessen Soobrayen

You've got everything it takes to be successful. On this year's Birthday, make yourself a promise that you will achieve your goals and dreams in life, no matter what.

A very Happy Birthday to you all again.

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GRADUATION You have reached a great milestone in your life, so hold on to the moment!

The world is yours for the taking.

Congratulations to SABRINA RASOLONJATOVO on successfully graduating her MSc Finance

Page 24

WHO ARE WE?

JCI (Junior Chamber International) is a network of young active citizens aged 18-40 years old, with more than 160,000 active JCI members and millions of JCI alumni participating in projects, meetings, learning programs and events. JCI members contribute to the advancement of the global community by creating positive changes in approximately 6,000 communities in more than 115 nations worldwide.

Why become a member?

JCI City Plus is a branch of JCI Mauritius and a registered NGO. Contact us to become an aspiring member-it is a free trial period of 3-6 months during which you get to work on various projects, including community projects which aim to fulfil the Global Goals, attend legendary parties as well as develop your leadership skills though various skills development trainings.

2023 Motto

How to join JCI City Plus?

ADDRESS 53 B, Avenue des Goyaviers, Quatre Bornes WEBSITE www.jcicityplus.org FACEBOOK facebook.com/jcicityplus Email jcicityplus@gmail.com Instagram @jci_city_plus Youtube @jci city plus Linkedin JCI City Plus

"Engage for Excellence"

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THANK YOU! Our partners who make it all possible