Tahirou

My name is Tahirou (changed for safety). My parents are simple farmers and I was born into a Christian family; however, I spent my childhood with my aunt and her husband whose family is Muslim. My uncle had a big influence on me growing up, often including me in formational gatherings with other men in our community. Knowing my Christian heritage, he allowed me to follow Jesus as my wonderful Savior when I met Him during an evangelistic caravan in my village. In addition to school, I spent my afternoons helping my parents and playing with children in my community. I also cared for our sheep by feeding, watering, and cleaning them, which awakened my interest in animals. I now live in a small town and urban commune in the Mopti Region of Mali with my tutor.

My early experience with animals contributed to my decision to study livestock in the zootechnics field in university. As a Developing Global Leader, I am grateful for the leadership training and the opportunity to be mentored and continue to grow in ministry skills. After graduation, my plan is to teach livestock population methods and breeding techniques, and to spread awareness of good practices in animal production in order to be useful and to contribute to my country. I plan to continue to work with Young Life wherever I am, redoubling my efforts to serve children through the gospel and to help them develop in the way of ministry and in daily life. I am proud to become the first person in my family to graduate from university.