M-Kids Launches Revolutionary Workshop "Rise & Lead" in Response to Growing Bullying Crisis Among Children in Mauritius
In a decisive response to the alarming rise of bullying and violence affecting Mauritian children, M-Kids has launched its pioneering workshop "Rise & Lead," a weekend residential retreat that brought children together for an immersive and transformative experience from December 6 to 8, 2025.
This initiative comes at a critical time for Mauritian children. Recent tragic incidents have revealed the extent of the bullying crisis impacting the youth of our nation. With cyberbullying now criminalized under the Children’s Act 2020, M-Kids recognized the urgent need for concrete preventive action.
"We refuse to stand idly by while our children suffer," states Ms. Mariam Bhoyro, coordinator of the Rise & Lead workshop program. "This retreat was designed not only to teach skills but to rebuild confidence, restore dignity, and reconnect children with their inherent potential to lead meaningful lives."
A Holistic Approach Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals
Set against the stunning backdrop of a bungalow in Cap Malheureux, the Rise & Lead workshop adopted a comprehensive approach to child development, aligning its goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—particularly health and well-being, quality education, reduction of inequalities, and peace.
The three-day program strategically disconnected children from the incessant stimulation of mobile devices and exhausting daily routines, creating a nurturing space where they could rediscover themselves, build resilience, and acquire essential life skills.
A Comprehensive Program: Body, Mind, and Character
Swimming and Water Safety: Children received professional instruction in swimming and water safety protocols. Recognizing that swimming provides a full-body workout, participants showed remarkable progress, with many non-swimmers gaining confidence in the water in no time.
Communication and Manners: Dedicated sessions highlighted the transformative power of simple phrases like "thank you," "hello," and "please." Children learned that good manners are essential tools for building respect, dignity, and positive relationships—skills that serve as powerful antidotes to the culture of bullying.
Culinary Skills and Independence: Hands-on cooking workshops led by expert resources taught children food preparation skills while promoting independence, teamwork, and appreciation for nutritious meals.
Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness: Specialized sessions on recognizing and managing emotions equipped children with tools to navigate their inner landscape. Understanding one’s own feelings—and those of others—is fundamental to breaking cycles of bullying and violence.
Why M-Kids is Taking Action
"Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and empowered," explains Ms. Sadoolah Zayna, co-coordinator of the program. "When we witness the daily struggles of families and the tragedies that befall our children, we know we must act. This workshop is our response: prevention through empowerment, healing through connection, and change through education."
Dr. Joomun Arshad (Imaam), who provided spiritual and ethical guidance throughout the retreat, emphasized: "Our children face unprecedented challenges in this digital age. The Rise & Lead workshop addresses the roots of violence and exclusion. By teaching empathy, respect, and self-esteem, we plant seeds that will grow into a more compassionate generation."
The residential format of the workshop proved particularly effective, with children forming lasting bonds and discovering that they are not alone in their struggles.
The success of the Rise & Lead workshop was made possible thanks to the valuable support of partners who share our vision for a better future for Mauritian children. M-Kids extends heartfelt thanks to Amigo restaurant, Winners supermarket, our partner bakery Chez Meddar, and Shakeer Briani for choosing to walk alongside M-Kids in this essential mission. Their commitment demonstrates that together, the Mauritian entrepreneurial community can make a tangible difference in the lives of our children.
M-Kids invites other stakeholders—government agencies, educational institutions, NGOs, and corporate partners—to join this critical mission so that every Mauritian child has access to the tools and support needed to thrive in a world free from bullying.