Uruguay

Nestled between Brazil and Argentina on the South Atlantic Ocean, Uruguay has one of the highest standards of living in Latin America with a literacy rate of 96% and a large urban middle class. Uruguay's culture is influenced heavily by its European roots, namely Spanish and Italian, which is reflected in the architecture, social traditions, food, and the national language – Spanish.

Uruguay is also known as one of the most secular nations in all of Latin America, where an estimated 17 percent of the people claim to be atheists or agnostic. Humanistic influences have created a profound spiritual drought among the people. Ranking among Latin America's highest rates of suicide, depression, abortion and divorce, some Uruguayans are beginning to realize their secular views hold no real hope and are becoming more open to the gospel.

During this strategic time, the need for bold, well-trained Young Life leaders is critical. Young Life Uruguay (Vida Joven) is establishing high school and university ministry. As the group of leaders grows in Montevideo, they dream of a future for Young Life throughout Uruguay.