Joseuse

My name is Joyeuse, but I prefer to go by the nickname Cathe. I'm from the city of Bujumbura, Burundi, and am the second born in a family of five children. By the grace of God, I was raised by my two loving parents, but life was never easy and the burden of provision fell on my father. However, as a family we have been able to face the good and bad, and grow into the people we are today.

From a very young age my parents took me to church; faith in God was central to life for our family. I grew up in church but I didn't know the real reason or see any relevance as to why we went to church. When someone invited me to Young Life, many things changed. It was in that loving environment that I started to grow in my faith, understanding anew the love and grace of Jesus. Now as a leader in my community, I am compelled to be a positive example. I want to invite and reach out to teens like myself who are longing to be seen and known.

As a Developing Global Leader, I have chosen to study the science of communication at Light University of Bujumbura. I want to know and discover new strategies for social development that will transform communities and individual lives in my country. Through mentorship and the opportunity to further develop my leadership skills in DGL, I hope to make a difference in my country. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.