Archdiocese launches singing competition to engage youth

Nov 22, 2024

By Yannick Mene
Helping young people, nurturing their talents, and praising God — these are the three pillars behind an original competition launched by the Archdiocese of Douala, located in Cameroon’s second-largest city, modelled after the popular TV show “The Voice.”

On November 1, some 30 contestants took to the stage set up at the All Saints Parish in Soboum, a district of Douala, to kick off the competition’s first edition. Coming from seven different parishes, each participant had to perform a song solo to vie for one of the 20 spots in the semi-final, set for December 6.

“The goal is to give these young people the opportunity to sing for God, to love one another, become familiar with each other, and discover themselves,” explained Fr Rodrigue Fozing, director of the competition in the Wouri 6 pastoral zone of the Archdiocese of Douala. “These young people are seeds for the church; we simply need to trust them.”

This idea emerged as part of the ongoing diocesan synod in the Archdiocese of Douala. Announced two years ago by Archbishop Samuel Kleda, the synod’s theme is Young People, Come and See. It has fostered a dialogue between priests and youth to identify and support their challenges.

The competition borrows the format of the television show. Each participant is blind-auditioned by a panel of four music professionals. In addition to judging, the panel’s role is to motivate and reassure the young contestants.

“I’m thrilled to be in 'The Voice' to showcase my talent,” Corine Kemsop from All Saints Parish in Soboum shared. “Two coaches turned their chairs when I sang. I will give my best to go as far as possible!” “I am very excited to participate in the first edition of 'The Voice' competition,” said Signe Dario from Pentecost Parish in Newton Airport. “It’s a great opportunity to connect with my brothers and sisters and live out our fraternity in a warm, friendly way.”

At the end of the competition, the most promising talents will receive support to pursue professional music careers, thanks to the backing of benefactors. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for our youth, as music professionals and patrons have decided to mentor the top performers in this event sponsored by the Archbishop of Douala,” noted Fr Paul Noel Nzepang, pastor of the host parish.

Fr Guillaume Omgba, the youth chaplain at St Thaddeus Parish in Bobongo, echoed this sentiment, saying he came to “celebrate the efforts and talents of the young people.” Yannick Mene, --LCI