LGD
WOMEN WorldChangers
Cynthia hails from Uganda, an east African country, where she lives with her parents and four siblings. Uganda faces challenges of poor healthcare, inadequate infrastructure, substandard education, and rampant unemployment, which culminate in leaving the already poverty-stricken population incredibly vulnerable. As the child of peasant farmers, the success of their crops directly affects whether her family will have enough food to eat and finances to meet other necessities.
Growing up in difficult conditions proved challenging for Cynthia, who struggled to find direction. Then, one day, a local Young Life leader invited her to club. She found it to be filled with joy and laughter. In a world needing levity and hope, club appealed to Cynthia. One particular message compelled her to begin her relationship with Jesus. Cynthia was no longer a child seeking clarity and direction. Her newfound purpose was to share the love of Jesus with all she encountered. As a Young Life leader, Cynthia feels it is a privilege to tell others about the light of Jesus.
Grateful for the opportunity to be a Developing Global Leader, Cynthia is attending Makerere University and studying reproductive health studies. She shares, “It is clear the God’s plan is for me to help women with reproductive health issues but most importantly, I will use the skills I acquire to boost teen moms ministry, Young Lives, in my area.”
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Andile, and I live with my mother and siblings in a rural area of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Here, the homes are very old and making a living is difficult. Shortly after my father passed away from cancer, my mother grieved mightily and was sent away for treatment. During those months, food was scarce, and money for schooling was nowhere to be found. Gratefully, my grandma taught us to bring our needs before the Lord. We persevered through prayer and fasting.
My personal journey with Christ began when my grandma invited me to church. She knew my heart hurt over the loss of my father and my mother’s condition. When I heard the church message, I knew I wanted to accept the gift and grace of Jesus. The decision to start a relationship with Him profoundly impacted my life and was the best choice I’ve ever made. Since then, I have joined my local Young Life and served as an area team leader. While my grandmother's faith and prayers played a crucial role in my spiritual journey, Young Life provided me with a community to heal from the loss of my father. I am beyond grateful for both.
As a Developing Global Leader, I will attend Bulawayo Polytechnic. I aim to be the first college graduate in my family and obtain a degree in applied art and design. With this degree, I aspire to become a fashion designer. My dream is to create t-shirts and African attire for Young Life. Furthermore, I hope to inspire and train youth from rural areas where I can help them meet their future and financial goals. I want to pour into people like my grandmother and my Young Life leader have done for me.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Beatrice is a diligent and hard-working young woman who lives in Bagamoyo, Tanzania, with her parents. She is the youngest of four in her family. Her father has a petty business that brings in little income and is not sufficient to feed her whole family and pay for school. As a young girl, she was very ill, affecting her schooling and causing her to miss classes. Having health challenges was hard for her personally and also created further financial challenges for her family. She had to take up various jobs like selling peanuts, but through that time, she learned to pray to God and be patient and she “experienced Him lifting her up and giving her strength.”
Beatrice was born into a Christian family and grew up attending church. However, she came to truly know Jesus at Young Life camp, after her friends invited her to Young Life club, Bible study and then camp. She learned to read God’s Word and pray. She also started loving church again and is now a volunteer Young Life leader.
As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, Beatrice is studying social work at the Institute of Social Work in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. She wants to be a social welfare officer, “prioritizing the overall well-being of individuals and helping in fields like child welfare, aging services and corrections.” Beatrice was described by her leader as “on a quest to do extraordinary things.” She expresses that her ideal job would be to encourage social change and cultural development in her city and country by impacting one individual at a time. She will be the first person in her family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Cheryll, and I live with my family in Thorngrove, Zimbabwe. Though Thorngrove is considered a safe community, it is not school-oriented. The community prioritizes drugs and alcohol over education, which limits many of my peers’ futures. While my parents came from a place of protection, we led a socially isolated life due to fear of negative influences. During my adolescence, it seemed no other child was “safe” for me to befriend, and I was sad and struggled.
Our parents have always done their best to encourage us to grow in knowledge and find joy in our faith. As a child, I knew the details of Jesus, but I didn't truly embrace a personal relationship with Him until high school. Over the years, I've realized the fragility of life, which has motivated me to take my faith more seriously. I've deepened my relationship with God through daily devotionals, prayer, worship, and praise. My journey with Christ has made me more patient and thoughtful. Today, He has given me a heart to serve others and share His love.
As a Developing Global Leader, I will be my family's first college graduate, earning a degree in social work from Zimbabwe University. My vision is to be a source of support and a positive influence in my community. I want to offer sound advice and help others navigate their trauma. As a youth, I felt disconnected from my peers and my Creator. As a social worker, I aspire to mentor others and bring people closer to God. I truly want to be an example of light in my community.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Enedy. I am the eldest of six and live in Ndola, Zambia. My parents divorced and abandoned us when we were very young. As a result, we spent our childhood moving from various homes, sometimes remaining together and other times apart. The government eventually intervened and my father took responsibility for his children. Although he had to offer shelter, he did not offer love. Because I never experienced affection or compassion as a child, I sought attention in the wrong places and with the wrong people. I tried everything to numb the pain.
Life began to look different when my sister invited me to Young Life. I found myself intrigued and continued to attend. One special day at camp, as the speaker began to share about Jesus, I felt a tremendous movement within my soul. It was as if God had made an appointment to untie me from my unhappiness. At that moment, God called my name, and I listened and I accepted the invitation to receive Him as my Savior. I felt loved. I felt whole. I felt worthy. Gratefully, I now lead others to Jesus through our local Young Life and church ministries.
As a Developing Global Leader, I attend the National Institute of Public Administration. I am studying administration and my goal is to work in human resources. I see this as an opportunity to support my family and community while sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with others.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Princess, and I live with my father and two brothers in Impali, Zimbabwe. Impali, a mining town, is not particularly focused on academics, and many children drop out of school because their families struggle to afford the fees. As a result, it can be challenging to find friends who are interested in life-changing or social movements, as most are busy helping their parents with work. When I was thirteen, my mother left us, I couldn’t believe it when my family told me she had passed away. Her death deeply affected me, as she was everything to me.
A few years later, I met someone who helped me understand my feelings of depression and loneliness. He encouraged me to pray and accept the reality of my mother’s death, urging me to build a relationship with God. His advice was a powerful catalyst for my personal growth. I had always known about Jesus and accepted Him as my Savior during Sunday school when I was fifteen. When I met my area leader and was invited to attend a Young Life Campaigners meeting, I began my Young Life journey. Later, during my first outreach camp, I gained a deeper understanding of Christ’s love through a Jesus skit. That experience ignited a desire in me to know Him more and to share His love with others.
Looking ahead, as a Developing Global Leader, I hope to graduate with a degree in commerce in logistics and supply chain from Midlands State University and continue growing as an individual. My vision is to help teenagers, especially orphans, by mentoring them and sharing business ideas to help them reach their full potential in life. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Sabina and I live with my parents and siblings in Zanzibar. Growing up, we were plagued by my father's alcoholism and physical abuse. From the day I was born, my father rejected me and refused to provide for me. My mother has been my hero and biggest advocate for my education and spiritual well-being. She has struggled to earn enough money to pay my education fees and has always sought wise spiritual counsel for her children. It is a blessing that my father’s disdain of me has not overshadowed the love of my mother and my Heavenly Father.
One of the most pivotal parts of my spiritual life was when I was invited to Young Life by our local leader. I was initially skeptical, but after attending some events, I experienced authentic joy and began a relationship with Jesus. I currently serve as the team leader in the Tungu neighborhood. I attribute so much of the goodness in my life to the relentless love my mother has always shown me. She fought for my education, my food, and for me to know the Lord. I want to honor her by pointing others toward Jesus and pursuing a better life for myself and my family through higher education.
As a Developing Global Leader, I am earning an international relations and diplomacy degree and I will be the first college graduate in my family. My vision is to be a great leader who will make life better for those in our country. I want to not only help my family, but I also want others to witness God working through me and create a country where food, education, and personal safety are not a privilege but a right.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Yonga. I live with my grandmother and sisters in Khayelitsha, a town in the western Cape in South Africa. Growing up, our parents were never present in our lives. Our mother passed away, and our father chose to turn his back on his children. I kept myself busy during my youth by volunteering in organizations and working hard in school. I felt I was on the right path until, one traumatic day, as I was walking home from school and was assaulted by two men. The resentment I felt for my father not being there to protect me was strong, and my hatred and distrust of men grew. I began a lengthy battle with depression.
One day, I found refuge while walking past a church where a Young Life club was being held. I heard laughter and singing. It was then a friend saw me and welcomed me inside. I felt at ease. I felt safe. I felt loved. I continued visiting and soon began a relationship with my heavenly Father. My time there was more than just a ministry to me, it became a family. Today, I am surrounded by good role models and people who want the best for me. My faith has shown me how God never left me and continues molding me into the Young Life leader and woman I am today.
As a Developing Global Leader, I attend the University of Western Cape and pursue a degree in business and economics. I strive to be the first college graduate in my family and become a well-respected businesswoman in my community. I pray to grow our local Young Life ministry and help inspire others to share the love of Jesus. God lives and He loves! I surely want to always be a part of that joyous noise!
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Chizoba and I live with my parents and my sibling in Abia, Nigeria. I used to be very timid and shy, which made the struggle of coming from a humble home even more overwhelming. However, I was brought up with love and my parents didn’t let the difficult circumstances of life make them harsh in bringing us up. But there was a large void in my life because I didn’t have my basic needs met as a kid; this greatly affected my self-esteem. While going through life, I just knew that all I could do was serve God diligently and give my all in worshipping him.
I met Jesus when I was eighteen while attending a church service with one of my neighbors. The pastor preached a sermon about the generosity of God’s love that greatly touched my heart. I used to think God was partial because of how difficult it was for my parents to make ends meet, but my heart and mind softened, and I made the bold step so say yes to Jesus. A mentor and youth leader in my church invited me to Young life club. When I attended my first club, I marveled at the reception. I knew then and there that I wanted to be a part of this mission.
Now a Developing Global Leader, I hope to graduate with a teaching degree from Havard Wilson College of Education, and gain a teaching job in a prominent school, where I can also have access to do Young Life ministry. I want to pour into my students and build great leaders. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Fatmata Margaret, and I live with my mother who is a single parent in Freetown, Sierra Leone. I have never known my father, he died when I was young. Since then, our mom has been taking care of my older siblings and I with the meager income from petty trading. I have seen firsthand the impact of poverty and discouragement and refuse to walk in the footsteps of hopelessness.
I met Jesus when I was a child through baptism at church. However, I stopped going to church and attending church activities because my life was so full of stress and struggle. I was reintroduced to Christ in secondary school through Young Life. I began to grow in faith as I was involved in clubs and campaigners. I am a Young Life team leader and have a huge heart to support young girls and teen moms, knowing they face many of the same issues I walked through in my life.
Now a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am overjoyed and strive to become the first in my family to graduate from university. I am pursuing a degree in procurement and logistics from Milton Margai Technical University. My vision is to become a role model in my community and be able to give financial stability to my family. I want to pour into my ministry to support and guide young girls.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Iam Mai, and I live in Grand Bassa, Liberia, with my mother and two sisters. Our father abandoned his family when I was four years old. As a single parent, my mother did her utmost to meet our needs as a struggling street vendor. At four years old I joined my mother in the streets to earn money for school fees and provisions for our family. I was a street vendor for sixteen years. Within that period, I encountered several challenges, from sexual assault to petty theft. Knowing my family and future depended on my income, I would not be hindered. God kept me for a purpose and has remained faithful.
At school, I always felt a bit different. I felt so much responsibility; I rarely could be a kid. Then, one day, God put a selfless Young Life leader in my life. He encouraged me to attend a Young Life outreach camp. There, I saw God in an entirely different light. There was joy, laughter, and shared meals. I heard the good news of Jesus Christ and felt unburdened knowing that He cradled me in His arms. Upon returning home, I joined a Campaigners group and began surrounding myself with a Christian community that loved and supported me. Currently, I serve as a Team Leader at a local high school.
As a Developing Global Leader, I attend Grand Bassa University in Buchanan, where I will become a nurse and be the first member of my family to graduate from college. My vision is to care for the underprivileged, ensuring they receive proper medical care. I want to be a beacon of light for those who are hurting and give them the hope I have found in our Great Physician, Jesus.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Siala Angele Kassi, commonly called Angele. I am the eldest child of my mother and the fourth child of my father. I live in Bonoua, Cote D'Ivoire, with my father and his other family after separating from my mother. My father is a strict and disciplined parent, who growing up did everything he could to ensure we had the best education in life. However, the struggle began when he lost his job and couldn't get another job to support us.
I was contacted by a Young Life volunteer leader, who came to our school to do contact work, and they invited me to camp. I was a Christian by then because I am from a Christian family, but when I went to the camp, I was amazed by the way kids are treated in Young Life. The message and everything else are completely different than anything I had ever experienced. I was touched by the message and how the leaders were humble and showing love to every kid. I knew from that time that I would like to show the same and even more love to other kids, so I opted to be trained as a Young Life Leader.
The opportunity to become a Developing Global Leader came to me and my family as a surprise; we were not expecting it and didn't even know of such opportunities in Young Life. Attending the University Institute in Abidjan to study finance is a dream come true for me, and I am trusting God to grant me the wisdom I need to go through successfully. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Solace, I am from Accra, Ghana. The youngest of four children, at age three, my eldest brother passed away and then the following year, my father passed away leaving my mother suddenly alone to care for three children and herself. Life became difficult as she lost her source of income and my siblings were made to stay with other relatives. Being the only child living with my mother, we struggled to make ends meet and sometimes went to bed on empty stomachs. I left school and stayed home until my mother could scrape together enough money for school fees. My mother had to do all kinds of menial work to earn enough for me to start school again; it was only possible with God on our side.
When I was fifteen, a man of God preached on salvation at church. I was touched by the message and during the alter call, I decided to accept Jesus Christ into my life. Since then, I have been walking with Him, and to the glory of God, things have never been the same again. I was invited by my pastor to go to Young Life club. After going through leadership training, I eagerly became a Young Life leader in my community.
Now as a Developing Global Leader, I am pursuing a degree in communication studies at Heritage Christian College and I want to become a journalist. I am hopeful that my education will nurture me intellectually, emotionally, and socially and will empower me to achieve my goals. By God's grace I intend to give a helping hand to young people in need as I was.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
I’m Angelica, and I live in Manila, Philippines with my parents and nine siblings who have their own families. Growing up, I felt I wasn't physically attractive. All through primary school I was bullied by classmates who made fun of my skin color, background, and looks. I didn't know how to stand-up for myself and often wondered why I had to go through that.
When I attended Young Life camp, my faith was weak, and I had many doubts and questions. It was hard for me to accept that God was my Savior. But as I began to accept God, I realized many important things. I met amazing people who saw my potential and supported me. God surrounded me with positive influences that boosted my confidence. Life felt lighter, more enjoyable, and manageable. My faith grew stronger, and I now turn to God first, both in good times and bad.
After the pandemic, our team leader called to discuss our commitment. When asked if I could fully commit to Bigkis Young Life, I didn’t hesitate to say yes. It was the best decision I ever made. It rekindled my faith in God and has been a meaningful way to serve the youth while recognizing my own past as one of them. I want to help the youth in our community participate in these events so that they can experience the amazing love and grace of God. I will also reach out to the youth and help build them into young leaders, sharing the word of God with them. While in the Developing Global Leaders program, I am attending Our Lady of Fatima University and studying medical laboratory sciences to become a doctor. I am eager to become the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Bulgan and I’m from Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia. I have a fraternal twin brother, however while growing up, I felt like the lesser twin. My parents favored my brother more because he was the only son in the family as our family still places a lot of favor on male heirs. Because of that, I felt rejected by my family and it became one of the greatest challenges for me. My brother was treasured and if anything bad happened, I often got the blame.
I started attending Young Life Club for the first time in 2018 and went to the summer camp the following year. I was introduced to Jesus there. Shortly after, I started going to church and now I have a relationship with Jesus. I also started to be a Young Life team leader at one of the schools. God changed my life a lot. At first, my family did not allow my belief in Jesus but day by day they are starting to accept me for it. I hope that my diligence in being a follower of Christ will point more kids to him as well. My leaders would describe me as someone consistent, obedient, responsible. I hope to keep improving my ministry and leadership skills as I study and grow.
Through the Developing Global Leaders program, I want to learn how to better lead a team and work with people. I am studying dentistry at Etugen University. With my degree I am eager to help people and eventually open my own clinic in order to serve people with love and be a light for Christ in the world.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Chau and I live in Vietnam, with a family of three generations: my grandparents, parents and older sister. My family is a Christian family. When I was young, my family had problems with the church's religious organization so they left the church, and my father founded a small church. It was a difficult time because we were new and small. We prayed together a lot and God listened and answered us. He gave us a stable place to worship Him, even if it was not as big as traditional churches.
However, after leaving the church, I was gradually becoming distant from God and spent little time with Him. When I realized this, I prayed to God a lot and asked for forgiveness and to avoid temptations. I pray for God to protect me in everything so that I do not stray away from Him. I love walking with students and sharing the love of Jesus with them.
Now, a part of the Developing Global Leader program, I am a Young Life volunteer and am studying English at a local university. I want to become an interpreter for the church, and help people communicate better. Through my speech, I would not only like to help people understand each other but also understand Jesus better. I want to have the opportunity to connect, work, and study with Young Life more in the future. I am committed to talking about God to young people and expanding my community.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Nancy, and I live in Compostela, Cebu, Philippines with my parents and three siblings. When I was young, there were always problems surrounding my mother, and she eventually left the family and did not return for quite a long time. With her departure came an onset of negative feelings. I had so much hatred directed towards her and felt empty inside. Gratefully, my grandparents stepped in and decided they would raise me. Their unconditional love was an incredible blessing as they introduced me to Jesus and modeled what it looked like to have a servant’s heart.
For a very long time, I felt 'not good enough', especially in my mothers eyes. Then, I heard the Gospel shared at Young Life camp. It seemed unreal that I would be good enough, just as I am, and God loves me regardless. I surrendered my life to Him, and a weight lifted from my chest. He continues to bring people into my life, who love me and give me wise counsel. Currently, I serve in my church and as a Young Life leader. My goal is to make a positive impact in the lives of others so that they understand their worth as children of God, rather than believing the lies the world tells them.
As a Developing Global Leader, I am studying electrical engineering at Cebu Technological University in Danao. I will be the first college graduate in my family. I want to make access to electricity available for everyone in need, especially those living in indigenous areas. While in the DGL program, I am committed to reaching others and reminding them that what the Bible tells us is true in Psalm 139, we are His precious craftsmanship, and we are more than enough.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Anna, and I live in North Africa with my parents and two sisters. I am the oldest daughter in my family. We immigrated from Argentina when I was one year old. As immigrants, the road was not easy for my parents and we had difficulties during my childhood, such as the language barriers, cultural differences, the lack of a local Spanish-speaking church and financial problems. However, my parents are believers in Jesus, and God answered our prayers for basic needs quickly. We did not lack anything. We are now assimilated into our country’s society.
My parents raised me and my sisters with the values of their faith in Jesus. I also have many small moments in my life that have influenced my path to Jesus such as my parents’ education, their service in the community, my baptism, attending conferences with other believers in North Africa and Young Life club and camp. My two-year mandatory military service as a border camera observer, also taught me to walk independently in my faith because it was difficult and intense. I am learning and growing every day in my relationship with Jesus.
As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying social sciences at a local university. I am the first person in my family to attend school - kindergarten to high school, military service and now university. It has been difficult studying with the conflict in my country, but my hope is that this degree will open doors for my younger sisters to continue their education and that I can help people navigate hardship as a social worker.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Joy, and I was born and raised in a rural area in South Asia, where my upbringing was deeply influenced by my family's faith and community values. My father served as a pastor, and from a young age, I witnessed first-hand the dedication and sacrifices involved in ministry. Despite our family's commitment to serving others, we often faced financial challenges, which sometimes meant struggling to make ends meet. These hardships taught me resilience and the importance of relying on faith during difficult times.
One of the defining moments of my life came during my teenage years when I faced a serious health crisis. I was hospitalized due to severe kidney stones, and during this time of physical pain and uncertainty, I turned to God in prayer. It was during this period of vulnerability that I experienced a profound spiritual awakening and deepened my personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This transformative experience ignited a passion within me to live a life dedicated to serving others and sharing the message of God's love and healing.
I am currently pursuing a degree in science and medicine, and I hope to be a nurse one day. Nursing appeals to me because it offers a direct way to help people in need and provide compassionate care to those facing health challenges. As a Developing Global Leader, I am committed to mentoring and supporting teenagers in my community, offering guidance, and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among them. I hope that through my influence Jesus will be seen in my community.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Maria, and I live in the Palestinian Territories among extended family with my parents and four brothers. Throughout my life we attended church as a family and my grandmother was the foundation of our interconnectedness and the source of our Christian growth. The greatest difficulty I faced was the loss of my grandmother at age thirteen. Losing her impacted everyone and was difficult for me because of my strong attachment to her. However, our faith in God and the faith that she instilled in our hearts and planted in us through her constant encouragement for us to pray when facing trials has carried us through.
During my adolescence, I moved away from God and church and grew closer to friends and spent more time on screens than with God. One day I sat alone and opened the Bible, and a verse impacted me significantly, “Come to me, all you who are weary.” The verse was for me, and from that time I returned to God, to the church, to prayer, and to faith. As a Wyldlife leader, I love creating time together with my girls and encouraging them to read the Bible with me and to grow closer by praying for one another.
With the help of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am attending a local university and studying elementary education. My educational goals are to achieve excellence and creativity in my profession as a teacher and to invest in the next generation. I seek to learn new skills through my courses and improve my critical thinking and communication skills in order to be an outstanding leader in my work, community and ministry.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Yara, and I live in the Jordan River region with my parents, brothers, and grandmother. I always felt nurtured and cherished as a child. The only true struggle was when my parents’ financial problems forced me to change schools frequently. With God’s grace, I adjusted and developed strong character and resilience. My greatest strength is my ability to empathize and connect with others, which I believe is deeply rooted in my upbringing and Christian faith.
Although I grew up in a Christian home, I did not begin my relationship with Jesus until I was invited into Young Life in high school. It was a pivotal time when I was searching for meaning and purpose. At club, I experienced the love of Christ profoundly and personally through the community, teachings, and activities. The genuine care and support I received from Young Life leaders and peers helped me to understand Jesus' love and grace more deeply. I was welcomed into community where I could explore my faith in a supportive environment. Young Life became instrumental in helping me grow spiritually and I now serve as a leader and know the Lord has a plan for my discipleship.
As a Developing Global Leader, I am pursuing a design and visual communication degree at a local university, focusing on glorifying God through creativity. I believe in using design to convey messages of truth, hope, and inspiration. My goal is to integrate Christian values into my work and lead by example, demonstrating humility and a commitment to honoring God in all endeavors. Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Emili is a passionate and dedicated student at the Catholic University in Tirana, Albania. She shares, “Growing up in a small, close-knit family, I was deeply influenced by my mother, whose strong Christian faith shaped much of my early life. As an adolescent convert herself, she instilled in me the values of her faith from a young age, taking me to church regularly even when I was reluctant.”
At the age of eleven, Emili made the decision to accept Jesus into her own life, which marked the beginning of a deeper relationship with God. She credits her later involvement in Young Life as an important part of her faith journey. “My spiritual growth took a significant turn recently, when I truly began to experience a profound connection with God. A pivotal moment was attending a Young Life camp thanks to a friend's invitation. Although my friend was not a believer, the experience was life-changing for me. I found peace and joy in the community and it inspired me to share my experiences with others, which in turn sparked interest among many of my friends.”
Now, as a Developing Global Leader, Emili pursuing a career in dentistry at the Catholic University in Tirana. “While I am aware that the path will be challenging, requiring six years of dedicated study, I firmly believe that God has opened this door for me. My faith has taught me resilience and confidence, qualities that I know will carry me through this demanding journey. I am excited about the future and grateful for the foundation my mother laid, which continues to guide me as I strive to fulfill my purpose in life.”
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Magdalena and I currently live in Poznań, Poland with my husband, but my roots stretch back to a tiny village in western Poland where I spent my early childhood with my great-grandmother. Those days were filled with the simple joys of playing in the fields and forests, free from worry. It was during this idyllic time that I first witnessed my greatgrandmother’s deep faith and unwavering trust in God, which left a lasting impression on me.
My journey with faith took a significant turn in high school when I encountered a personal crisis that shook me deeply. I distanced myself from church and struggled to find meaning in anything. It was during a summer break, through frequent conversations and prayers with my great-grandmother, that I began to discover what it truly means to have a personal relationship with God.
As a Developing Global Leader, I am pursuing my studies in psychology and cognitive science, as well as serving with Young Life. My academic focus is on understanding the complexities of the human brain, decision-making processes, and improving the quality of medical practice through AI. I envision a future where I can be deeply involved in local ministry, using my energy, knowledge, and leadership skills to help others and introduce them to God. I see this as a significant responsibility, and I am committed to continuously improving my skills so that I can serve others wisely and effectively, always guided by my faith.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Alejandra, and I live in the municipality of La Dalia, Matagalpa, Nicaragua with my mother, younger sister and nephew. As a child, I was a shy person of few words. My parents often argued, and my older sister and I witnessed deception of my father until my parents divorced. Eventually my sister moved out on her own and my mother was absent as she tried to put her life back together, leaving me seemingly alone. Despite all that, I did not deviate from my path, but I felt sad and very angry about what was happening to me.
In high school, I was invited by a friend to go to Young Life club. I was not very eager to participate but went so as not to refuse the invitation. After my first encounter with Jesus at Young Life camp, I felt loved by Jesus and wanted to stay in a ministry that would help me to have a relationship with Jesus and help others to know Him. As I faced my struggles with the help of God, I was able to move forward and heal. Now I am a very communicative person, I have a better relationship with my family, and we continue to support each other.
As a Developing Global Leader, I am attending National Autonomous University of Nicaragua. I want to study law so I can help others through my knowledge, gifts and service and be a useful and responsible person committed to impacting my community. In ministry, my goal is to grow personally and thus be able to provide my knowledge and experiences to others as an example to follow to help many leaders grow in their faith and be a light to teens in my community.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Diana and I live in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas with my mother and sister. I have lived with my mom since I was four years old. I still have contact with my dad, and we are working on our relationship. I grew up in a Christian family, however when I was a teenager, I felt a void and realized I wanted to feel loved by someone.
God started to appear in areas of my life when I was fourteen years old, including making new friends that knew him, changes in my church, changes in my dad, and even changes in my household. God started to let me know that I was truly loved by him and that I did not need to make people love me. Jesus made himself known to me at Young Life outreach camp. I felt loved in a new way which spurred on many changes in my life. God is continuing to teach me about his love and showing me how to better love those around me.
Now, through the Developing Global Leaders program, I am studying languages, especially English, at Autonomous University of Chiapas. I have been praying about my career for a long time, and God showed me the opportunity to use English as a tool for the ministry. I want to continue growing in my faith and knowledge at the same time as I continue serving God, helping people to know him in the best way and not by prejudices. I want to help people so they can feel the love of God.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Eymi and I live in San Rafael del Norte, Nicaragua. My family is quite loving, and I have not had many setbacks in my childhood. Since I was very young, my parents have shown me their love and unconditional support, which has helped me to grow in a positive way. They have always emphasized the importance of my studies and have expressed the potential they see in me to be a great professional. I am grateful that my parents continue to show me that I can trust them and that they will always be there for me.
I met Jesus when I was very little. My parents have always attended the Catholic Church and have helped me to know about Jesus. However, my relationship with Jesus became personal when I went to my first Young Life camp. Through discipleship and my devotional time, I have grown in my faith and been able to establish a relationship with Jesus. My faith has increased as I see how Jesus works in my life, in my family, in my Young Life team and in the young people that we are leading to him.
I see myself as an active professional and as global leader, and just as the Developing Global Leaders scholarship has supported me, I hope to offer support and help wherever it is needed. I am studying medical technology at Commander Father Gaspar Garcia Laviana National University. I have a heart willing to serve, hoping to have a great impact on young people and be an example in my community.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Ixa and I live in the city of Matagalpa, in northwestern Nicaragua. My childhood was marked by the affection of my grandmother, with whom I grew up and lived because my parents were dedicated to working. Although I did not live with them, my parents were always present in a certain way in my life. One of my biggest challenges growing up was feeling like I couldn't be completely myself; my mom wanted me to be a specific way and that sometimes made me feel that I had to comply with their expectations instead of discovering who I really was.
I grew up hearing about Jesus when I went to church with my grandmother, but personally that Jesus scared me because I had been taught that if I behaved badly, he would punish me. However, it wasn’t until I went to Young Life camp that I came to truly know him. I not only understood more deeply who Jesus was, but I felt his presence, and I realized that he loved me and accepted me as I was. From that moment, I started a true relationship with Jesus, which was the catalyst for great change in my life.
Now with this Developing Global Leaders scholarship opportunity, I am studying business law at the University of Commercial Sciences. One of my objectives is to form an office where I can attend to both private and public matters of law, providing quality service to people who require it and have a stable job that supports my needs. As a ministry leader, my vision is that every step of my educational and professional path reflects my relationship with Jesus. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Lupita lives in a modest home with her mother and father and four siblings in Matagalpa, Nicaragua. Her childhood was peaceful, but she faced social challenges during her teens when starting school after being educated at home. This made it difficult for her to connect with classmates, leading to ridicule and isolation. For a few years, she struggled with low self-esteem and avoided socializing, even during family activities.
She knew about Jesus growing up, thanks to her mother, a devout servant of God. Her deeper interest began in her adolescence, through confirmation classes and participation in church. At sixteen, encouraged by her sister, she attended a first-timers camp with Young Life. "Thanks to this experience, I formed a closer relationship with Jesus and was able to learn about Him while growing in my faith." The trust she built with her mother and sister helped her change the negative aspects of her life and begin her journey with Jesus.
Now a Developing Global Leader, Lupita’s vision is to earn a degree in systems engineering at National Autonomous University of Nicaragua, mastering technical knowledge while developing leadership and interpersonal skills. She aims to be a versatile leader who can solve complex problems and positively impact her community. "I want to be someone who can apply my knowledge to make a real difference." Her goals as a DGL include leading a Young Life club in a new area, continuing her mentoring work with teens, and coordinating camp activities. Lupita hopes to provide others with the support and tools they need to grow in their faith, just as she
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
From a young age, Maryeling has spent her life searching for stability and longing for connection. Born in Matagalpa, Nicaragua, she and her mother moved back and forth between Nicaragua and Costa Rica, where her father lived. Unfortunately, childhood was filled with conflict between her parents, from bullying at school as she tried to overcome learning difficulties, and deeply painful experiences within her own family. These struggles created a heavy weight of insecurity and loneliness for Maryeling.
Yet, through it all, faith became a light in the darkness for Maryeling. She shares, “I grew up knowing about Jesus, but I was always taught about him as a punishing God, however, as I got involved with Young Life, the image I had of God changed. I came to know that he was an understanding God of love who forgave.” The welcoming environment she found at club allowed her to feel accepted for who she is, which became an anchor when so much of her life felt uncertain.
Now a Developing Global Leader, Maryeling is pursuing a degree in social work from National Autonomous University of Nicaragua. Looking forward, she hopes to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in her community, helping them grow in their own faith and find confidence in their leadership skills. Maryeling’s story is a journey characterized by resilience, and she is determined to share the hope she has with others.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Sharon, and I live with my mother and my brother in Catarina, Nicaragua. When I was young, I had problems with my father, when he left home a resentment was created in my heart.
I learned about Jesus when I was very young, but I didn't have a relationship with him until I attended a camp for newcomers and learned more about Jesus early in high school. I have learned to put everything in the hands of God and depend on him at all times including the journey of forgiving my father. As a Young Life leader, my vision is to take the gospel to more neighborhoods and communities within Catarina; I long to bring the good news of salvation to every corner of the municipalities.
A recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying civil engineering at the National University of Engineering. I am dedicated to my studies striving to achieve excellence while maintaining an attitude of humility and gratitude. I place my hope and faith in God for every step I take in ministry, knowing He is there with me, so that I may reflect the love of Christ through community service and helping those in need.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Valeria, I live in León, Nicaragua, with my mother, my brother, my two aunts, and my grandmother. When I was a child, my father left us, and that caused me emotional wounds in my heart, and growing up I struggled with many insecurities that prevented me from being myself, always trying to fit in and change my way of being to "belong to a group." I found refuge in my studies because it was the only way I felt important.
During this time, I lived with hatred toward my father, but I was given the opportunity to go to a Young Life camp, where I heard the word of God, understood the meaning of forgiveness, and finally believed and gave all my burdens, hatred, and insecurities to God. This allowed those wounds to be healed with love, peace, security, and faith. I am currently the leader and coordinator for the municipality of Telica, guiding women's leadership, and I hope to encourage students and leaders every day.
Now a Developing Global Leader, my vision is to continue growing and learning, no matter the obstacles that arise, always keeping my eyes on my academic goals and allowing myself to grow professionally. I am attending Martin Lutero University and studying english. As a Young Life leader, this is an opportunity to keep impacting the lives of others, helping to strengthen faith and spiritual growth in every young person reached through the ministry, and using the tools that Jesus has placed in my hands. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Born in Bogotá, Columbia, Alejandra has been deaf since birth. Her parents, both deaf, along with extended family members, all share the same condition. Raised by her mother after her parents' separation, she didn’t know Colombian Sign Language (CSL) until she moved to live with her father and attend a supportive and caring Christian school where all classes were taught in sign language. At nine, her father abandoned the family, leaving her in a difficult situation with her stepmother, and she soon felt isolated and unimportant. Eventually, she entered a harmful relationship, which led to a time of deep discomfort. “I knew from school teachings about God that this wasn’t right, but I didn’t know how to get out.” Finally, Alejandra found the courage to end the relationship and, with help from her school, moved into a new home. “Living with a hearing family who didn’t know CSL has been a process of adaptation and learning to communicate little by little, however they have shown me love, attention, and have helped me grow,” she says.
Joining Young Life Capernaum in high school changed her life. Alejandra shares, “It was striking to hear young people talk about Jesus with such clarity and passion.” She made the decision to follow Jesus fully. “I felt loved and forgiven, not judged, and that’s when I committed to a new life with Him.”
Now a Developing Global Leader, Alejandra is studying visual communications at a local university and will be the first in her family to earn a college degree. She expresses, “The career I have chosen, will give me opportunities to reach more deaf youth. I would love to
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Ana lives in Cuenca, a city in the Andean mountains of southern Ecuador. She was born in Colombia, but because her father is Ecuadorian, her family decided to raise her in Ecuador. She grew up in a home full of love and faith, as her parents are pastors, and from an early age she met God and developed a relationship with Him. As a child she enjoyed learning and going to school, but as the years went by her enthusiasm faded because she suffered from bullying. Because of this, she missed a year of school. Her family moved her to a different school. Ana reflects, “I became a great student. I was class president, I participated in different poetry, soccer and arts contests and I graduated with one of the best averages in the class.”
Ana was introduced to Young Life while at college. She was living away from her family and friends to attend college and her loneliness had affected her relationship with God. But her faith was renewed when she was invited to attend Young Life camp. “At camp I was able to say yes to resume my relationship with Jesus and start walking with Him afresh.” Since then, Ana has been involved with Young Life College on her campus.
As a Developing Global Leader, she is studying media and communications at Cuenca University. She dreams of working in an organization where she can create projects that help children, youth and women in vulnerable situations, allowing their stories to be told. Her goals include continuing to grow YL College ministry, reaching out to other students, and serving in the area of communications.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Elya is a kind and hard-working girl from Central Asia whose name has been changed for security reasons. She comes from a Christian family and is the eldest child. At an early age, she had to take care of her younger sister, so she knows what responsibility is and what it's like to be an adult. A significant moment in her teenage years was when she moved to a predominantly Muslim country, when she found herself alone and very introverted. After some time there, she met Young Life, which was a defining moment. She found herself, true friends, and most importantly, she began to build a real relationship with Jesus, even though she had known Him since childhood through her parents.
Her friends from Young Life took her to church, where she feels safe and secure surrounded by brothers and sisters. "That was the moment I realized that now I know that I can love God with all my heart, and He gives me the love that I pass on to all people," she says. Now, she lives in another city because of her studies, where she serves as the head of the Young Life College club for students and helps out on the Capernaum team.
As a Developing Global Leader, she is majoring in languages and will be the first in her family to graduate from university. Elya hopes to become a "fully educated person", which will help her to have a greater impact on others. She dreams of developing a coffee shop business in her town in order "to create a team of believers who will work together and convey the atmosphere of God's love to everyone who comes there."
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Juliana and I was born in a small city in Central Asia. My name has been changed for security reasons. My family is Christian, so I grew up with these values since childhood. My mom is a church pastor. When I was 4 years old, my dad started using different drugs and drinking, and things in the family got much worse. Because of my father's addiction and the violence in the family, we moved to a big city to live with my grandmother, cutting off all ties with him. Thanks to my mother, I have been actively involved in church and ministry since childhood, and her life and faith have always been an example to me. However, I personally met Jesus in my teens. It was at a Christian conference, and I realized His personal involvement in my life, which motivates me to serve Him actively to this day. A few years later, a friend of mine invited me to one of Young Life's summer events. I fell in love with this mission and joined several areas of this ministry at once. Serving in the Capernaum team has become an inspiration for me to grow spiritually and develop as a person. I have been working on the development of Young Life in a neighboring small town, where there is already an active team for high school kids, and we hope to open a Capernaum club there soon. I enjoy strategizing, planning tasks, and coordinating team efforts to achieve common goals. As a DGL program participant, I study business and economics with a focus on management at a local university. I hope to apply the skills I learned at the university to my ministry and contribute to the development of our country.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Vitalina, and I live in the capital city of Ukraine, Kyiv. I was born in a small town but then we moved to Kyiv, and I had to change schools several times. It was a stressful period, because I always found it difficult to adapt to a new environment, and I often faced rejection. My parents often quarreled and I did not feel connected to them which also impacted me. Finally, I moved to a friendly school, where I was accepted and felt like I left those problems behind, but the war started, and we had to leave once more. Those days felt like utter darkness, every day was terrible and painful. Due to rocket attacks, we spent some time without water and electricity. Every day I was afraid to wake up, I did not know what could await the day, however, we learned to live with it.
During that first summer of the war, I went to Young Life camp. That week became the best week of my life, not because of games or contests, but because of the God I learned about. Now I have joined the team in Kyiv, where my family later returned after fleeing. I serve teenagers in my city, and I am overwhelmed by how God works not only in their lives, but also in mine.
Since childhood, I have dreamed of working in the field of cinema and television. Therefore, I am eager to professionally pursue the field of audiovisual arts and production. I believe the film industry can be a vehicle for the message of Jesus. I want to devote my life to service and further developing Young Life in Ukraine and for every teenager to hear about Jesus Christ.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
My name is Vitalina, and I live in the capital city of Ukraine, Kyiv. I was born in a small town but then we moved to Kyiv, and I had to change schools several times. It was a stressful period, because I always found it difficult to adapt to a new environment, and I often faced rejection. My parents often quarreled and I did not feel connected to them which also impacted me. Finally, I moved to a friendly school, where I was accepted and felt like I left those problems behind, but the war started, and we had to leave once more. Those days felt like utter darkness, every day was terrible and painful. Due to rocket attacks, we spent some time without water and electricity. Every day I was afraid to wake up, I did not know what could await the day, however, we learned to live with it.
During that first summer of the war, I went to Young Life camp. That week became the best week of my life, not because of games or contests, but because of the God I learned about. Now I have joined the team in Kyiv, where my family later returned after fleeing. I serve teenagers in my city, and I am overwhelmed by how God works not only in their lives, but also in mine.
Since childhood, I have dreamed of working in the field of cinema and television. Therefore, I am eager to professionally pursue the field of audiovisual arts and production. I believe the film industry can be a vehicle for the message of Jesus. I want to devote my life to service and further developing Young Life in Ukraine and for every teenager to hear about Jesus Christ.
Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives; - Colossians 1:9
Young Life Developing Global Leaders is fueled by the generosity of sponsors. A full sponsorship of $250/month for four years provides a full-ride 4-year scholarship empowering these young women to pursue a university education while also serving as Young Life leaders in their local communities.