Cielo de María

My name is Cielo. I currently live with my father and sister in the Flor de Pino village in Nicaragua. I have five brothers and sisters. I grew up with an absent father and a mother dominated by her work. We also had constant financial problems at home. When I moved in with my father, I rebelled and was sad. I resented my father and had bad friends who encouraged me to do bad things. This caused my relationship with my entire family to decline, and I felt alone. My life then changed when I was invited to Young Life camp. I was introduced to Jesus, His Love and forgiveness, and realized I was not alone. This helped me forgive my father and improved my relationship with my family.

I visited church as a child, but never had any close moments with Him until I went to Young Life camp where I met Jesus. I heard about Young Life from my sisters who went to camp. I started attending Club and Camp, and then became a Leader. I am now the Area Director of three clubs in different parts of my city and support the young mothers ministry as well. I also attend church regularly and my relationship with Jesus continues to grow.

As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying graphic design and digital advertising. Upon graduation, I want to start my own marketing company where I can work in advertising and digital resource management to help other companies grow and reach economic stability. My other goal is to advise people in leadership. I also hope that my degree helps me to be a better communicator so that I can carry the name of Jesus, His Love and forgiveness in everything I do.