Youth Ages 14–18 from 15 Nationalities Attend FSY Conference in Bangkok

Youth ages 14 to 18 from 15 nationalities across 13 countries gathered in Bangkok for the International For the Strength of Youth (FSY) Conference, organized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The five-day event focused on helping participants strengthen their faith in Jesus Christ, develop friendships, and grow personally through devotionals, workshops, interactive classes, service projects, dances, and games.

This international FSY conference was held in English to accommodate youth living in Asia who could not attend local FSY programs due to language barriers. Participants were divided into “companies,” each with a mix of ages and genders, led by Young Single Adult (YSA) counselors. These groups quickly learned to build unity, work together, and support one another throughout the conference.

Many youth said the conference inspired them to be more intentional in their gospel studies and described FSY as a “transformative” experience that fosters spiritual, social, and personal growth. Sarah Olson, 16, who twisted a ligament during a variety show practice, remained committed to attending the event, saying, “I love FSY so much that I just want to be here, where I can meet new friends from all over the world, feel the spirit, learn, grow and have fun together.”

The conference also offered opportunities for service and creative expression. Youth participated in activities with 30 young participants from the Mercy Center in Bangkok, demonstrating kindness and care across language barriers. Bhuti and Noma Makunga from South Africa choreographed a performance that was part of the variety show, showcasing the talents and creativity of the participants.

Evelyn Cheong, 18, a recent convert from Singapore, noted the experience of connecting with peers from different backgrounds: “I had never met so many Church members of my age until I arrived here. The large group makes the experience very powerful.” Crista Li, 17, from Malaysia, emphasized that the dynamic atmosphere encouraged her to prioritize spiritual things together with other youth. Adia Wong, 17, from Hong Kong, found scripture study especially meaningful, applying techniques learned at FSY to better understand her personal path in the gospel.

The FSY curriculum guides youth to “discover” areas for personal improvement, “plan” actionable steps, “act” on them, and “reflect” to grow spiritually and personally. This approach helps participants apply gospel principles in their daily lives, develop empathy, and strengthen their faith.

The organizing committee, including coordinators, YSA counselors, and Church leaders, observed the youth’s development throughout the conference. Isaac Woolford, 22, said, “When we give the youth space and trust, they show maturity in their thinking and testimonies. We just have to give them opportunities to do that and experience that.” Amanda Hansen, 22, added, “The Savior really knows every single one of these youth. He knows where they are at with their testimony and in life, so He puts the people and things where they needed to be.”

Special spiritual moments included a sacrament meeting attended by the Area President, noted by Elder Benjamin M. Z. Tai: “Watching the young men passing the sacrament and blessing it with such care and respect was really powerful. I had a vision of the future of the Church: They organize themselves; they administer the ordinances themselves; they make covenants by themselves. It’s very powerful.”

Participants left FSY encouraged to continue their personal growth, maintain their faith, and serve others, taking the lessons and friendships formed at the conference into their daily lives.