Polina

My name is Polina and I go by Polya. I was born in a large Russian city where I am the first born of my siblings. My childhood was happy and I felt secure and supported in the love of my parents. Unfortunately, when I was thirteen years old, my parents divorced and I lived with my mother. It was one of the most difficult trials in my life. I thank God that He turned everything for good; He found me and brought me to His family.

My faith story began during my parents' divorce. At that time, my heart was closed from people, I was depressed and broken. But thanks to my friends, I went to Young Life summer camp. At the end of each day, the leaders shared God's Word with us and talked about the love and personality of Jesus Christ. It touched my heart. On the last day of the camp, I came to God with an open heart so that He could heal my pain; my heart was filled with joy, peace and faith. After I returned home from camp, I began to serve God and to help in the church. I also developed new friends and a new place to find belonging.

As a Developing Global Leader, I am studying history at a local university. I believe that my future is in the hands of God, and above all, I want to fulfill His will. As a university student, new opportunities for service and development are opening up before me. I look forward to studying history and seeing what doors open for me to mentor young people and continue to grow as a teacher and leader in my community. I will be the first in my family to graduate from university.