The Red Cross Society of Seychelles (RCSS) continues to advance the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ (IFRC) Light in the Dark initiative by promoting dialogue and collective action to address vulnerability, strengthen social cohesion, and build peaceful and resilient communities.
In line with this commitment, the RCSS Secretary General recently participated in the Nelson Mandela Forum, organised by the Department of Poverty Alleviation, in collaboration with the University of Seychelles (UniSey). Held under the global theme, “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequality,” the forum brought together stakeholders to discuss practical solutions to some of the country’s most pressing social challenges. The outcomes of the forum will also serve as discussion papers for students at the University of Seychelles, encouraging future leaders to contribute to national dialogue on poverty, peace, and sustainable development.
The discussions reflected the vision of the IFRC’s Light in the Dark initiative, launched during the recent Solferino celebrations in Italy, which calls on individuals, organisations, and communities to be a source of hope, compassion, and inclusion. An event which was attended by the RCSS Vice President, Audrey Adam and Secretary General, Marie-May Esparon.
They also complemented the Glow Red movement, which encourages National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to showcase the power of humanitarian action through volunteerism, solidarity, and community engagement.
Participants highlighted that addressing poverty and inequality requires more than financial assistance. It calls for stronger partnerships across government, the private sector, civil society, academia, and communities.
The increasing demand for mental health and psychosocial support was also recognised as a growing priority. Ensuring that communities are educated on lifeskills, also included in the school curriculum. People should be provided with the skills to provide appropriate support to help build resilience and promote lasting peace.
For RCSS, these discussions reinforce that humanitarian action extends beyond emergency response. It is about restoring dignity, reducing vulnerability, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that no one is left behind. Through Light in the Dark, Glow Red, and its ongoing humanitarian work, RCSS remains committed to working alongside partners to help build a more compassionate, inclusive, and resilient Seychelles.
On the sidelines of the forum, the RCSS Secretary General met with representatives of the University of Seychelles (UniSey) to explore opportunities for closer collaboration. Discussions focused on strengthening education and research on poverty and vulnerability, including the potential for RCSS to contribute practical case studies and humanitarian experiences to support academic learning, research, and informed policy discussions. The collaboration aims to bridge theory and practice, equipping future professionals with a deeper understanding of the complex social and humanitarian challenges facing Seychelles.
