Rolando Jose

My friends call me Rolan. I live with my mother and younger sister. My childhood was painful. When I was 5 years old, my father left our family. My mother had to work, and I stayed alone at a neighbor’s house. There was a void in my heart, and I felt like it was my fault. My brothers cared for me, dressed me, fed me and took me to school. Then, when I was a teenager, my older brother tragically and unexpectedly took his own life. Before this, I had started going to Young Life, and Jesus became my strength to cope with his death. My prayer now is to help other young people with emotional problems and to prevent them going through situations like my brother.

For as long as I can remember, my mother and brother made me attend church. At first, I did not understand it, but it gave me community and relationships with people who love Jesus. However, as I grew up, I distanced myself from God. I then found out about Young Life through a friend who invited me to camp. I felt welcomed and valued by the leaders there. I also met Jesus at camp and began my relationship with Him. I find purpose in my faith and service to others through Young Life. I am now a club coordinator in my city.

As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying engineering and computer science. When I graduate, I want to create a company for all types of computer maintenance. I want to help young people in my community by giving them jobs. I want to continue reaching more people for Jesus and reflect His love.