Israel

My name is Israel. I live with my parents and with three of my siblings in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. I grew up observing the alcoholism of my father as my closest relatives acted as if there was no problem.  This caused me at an early age to consume alcohol and other illicit substances myself, and I grew up in environments where violence abounded. The people I loved and esteemed were never really there for me, they were just there to make fun of all the stupid things I did when I was drunk. Over time I came to feel alone and misunderstood, I felt that no one cared, and I became depressed for a long time. When I went to Young Life camp I had a lot of fun, I met new people and they introduced me to Jesus in a totally different way from what I knew. The next time I attended camp it was not only filled with fun but I found Jesus that week and from there everything in my life began to change. I stopped consuming alcohol and stopped the bad habits that did not allow me to advance. I decided to lead a life with God and grow in my faith. Everything has been improving little by little in my life. I have been filled with wisdom that I am able to share with others.

Now, as a Developing Global Leader, I’m on track to being the first in my family to graduate from university and am pursuing a degree in business administration. I am currently a leader and coordinator of a club in my city. One day with all my acquired knowledge, I would like to start and manage a business that can help cover ministry expenses and expand its influence in my community.