Issa

My name is Ibrahim (changed for safety) and I’m from Mali. When I was small, I was in a very challenging situation. I have a large Muslim family with many brothers and sisters. I lived with my father's older brother, and unfortunately, his wife abused me. It was a big decision, but I left home to find my father and try to make a home with him.

In high school, my father was very ill. I met a Christian pastor that came and prayed for my father and he was healed; this caused me to start a relationship with Christ. This pastor invited me to start attending Young Life. Being connected to Young Life for these past five years has helped me grow in my Christian faith. Unfortunately, my decision has caused my family to turn their backs on me and I have been abandoned by them. I know that I am family with those that have also chosen to follow Christ.

As a Developing Global Leader, my plan is to study human resource management in university. I hope that these skills transfer to many different kinds of job opportunities. This type of degree may help me connect with people in different nations who need to know the love of Christ. I want to use my education to help people in need in the church and in the community. I hope to continue to grow in my faith by staying connected to Young Life and will be the first in my family to graduate from university.