‘The purpose of service’: the evolution of the capacity-building program empowering Sydney’s youth

Young people in Sydney are strengthening their spiritual qualities while developing the practical capacities needed to contribute meaningfully to community-building efforts through an intensive program inspired by the teachings of the Baha’i Faith. 

Titled the ARCS (Action, Reflection, Consultation, Study) Intensive Capacity Building Program, the program supports both individual transformation and collective progress through the intensive study of the Ruhi Institute – an educational curriculum that inspires individuals to contribute to the betterment of society through practical engagement in their community. 

The program’s third intake was held during the summer period from December 2025 to February 2026. The initial registration process included early conversations, formal invitations, and orientation packages. Candidates were thoughtfully considered based on their readiness to learn, eagerness to serve, and family support.  

In the neighbourhood of Mount Druitt, Western Sydney, seven youth were identified as prospective participants for the program. Over dinner at a local pizzeria, the youths’ collective concerns regarding participation in the program were addressed. Concerns included disruptions to weekly spiritual educational activities, financial difficulties, family obligations and other personal commitments. Practical solutions were offered and barriers removed resulting in most of the youth registering for the program.

The first two weeks served as an orientation period, building a culture of unity and fostering excellence. Participants explored themes of individual effort, collective action, and environment – studying selections from the Ruhi Institute materials alongside one of ‘Abdu’l-Baha’s talks about kindness and inclusivity. As the program advanced, it settled into a rhythm featuring daytime study of Ruhi Books 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7, afternoon service activities, and evening gatherings exploring spiritual themes. 

A major highlight was a week-long deployment to the regional town of Griffith to assist in establishing local community-building efforts. Despite challenges, the youth gained rich insights, culminating in a family festival attended by 100 locals. A cohort of five Griffith youth then went on to participate in a summer camp and attended the Institute for Studies in Global Prosperity (ISGP) seminar – a forum for university students, graduates and young professionals which explores concepts that give shape to humanity’s search for global peace and prosperity.

Following the program’s third intake, participants attended a graduation ceremony at the Baha’i House of Worship. Families, friends, and institutional representatives gathered and participants shared creative presentations detailing their insights, challenges, and short- and long-term goals for serving their home communities.  

Participants reflected on the profound impact the program had on their lives. 

One participant shared that the program has guided him to gain new capacities he didn’t know he had the potential to achieve.  

“It helped me develop not only my understanding of the purpose of service but also deepened the bonds of friendships I had with the other youth. I feel as if I was a new person walking out of the program.”

Another said participating in the program not only developed his understanding about the whole institute process “but also developed a spiritual passion about unifying mankind and achieving the betterment of humanity as the purpose of man is to serve something greater than yourself.” 

To ensure momentum is sustained, a comprehensive two-year support system is now being formalised. Drawing on feedback from previous cohorts, this system connects graduates to a structured cycle of reflection, individual check-ins, and accompaniment from Baha’i institutions such as Local Assemblies. Graduates will also have opportunities to volunteer as tutors or logistics support for future intakes, walking shoulder-to-shoulder with the next cohort.

Another key learning from the first two intakes was that relying on a single program coordinator to organise, facilitate, and plan the program was unsustainable. To foster greater coherence, an additional full-time coordinator and two part-time coordinators were appointed for the third intake. A dedicated logistics person to address growing operational needs was also added. 

With an expanded team in place, a healthy rhythm of action, reflection, and open dialogue has emerged. A culture of support and collaboration between participants, coordinators and the institutions of the Baha’i Faith ensures the program remains closely aligned with the goals of the Nine Year Plan – the spiritual enterprise dedicated to strengthening community-building endeavours in all parts of the world. 

The ARCS program continues to refine its structure through a systematic process of action, reflection, and consultation, empowering a generation of youth to serve their communities with clarity, purpose, and steadfast dedication.