Stephen

My name is Stephen and I live with my wife and two children in Lagos, Nigeria. I am the first child among six, and from a very humble background in the slum of Lagos. My father was a low-class civil servant and my mum a petty trader. Even though I was from a meager background, I was optimistic that one day, I would be able to give my family a good life. I gave my life to Christ in 2007 after involvement in street violence that almost took my life, but God rescued me. After a lifetime of hardship and struggle, I recognize that God has used adversity to create in me character of resilience and tenacity. As a minister in the church and the volunteer country leader for Young Life, I strive to set an example and be a role model in my community, especially offering hope to the youth in my country. After laying aside my dreams of becoming a lawyer, I now have the opportunity to further pursue my education and earn a degree in international relations at National Open University. I plan to become a diplomat for my country and ultimately, be a voice for peace.