Kenedi

My name is Kenedi and I live in Goma, uniquely located near a large active volcano on the eastern edge of the Republic of the Congo, with my parents, sister and brother. There are nine children in my family, but we do not all live together. Some of my siblings live with my grandparents and other family members. Our childhood was challenging. After my parents retired from their jobs, life became even more difficult as sparse resources became even thinner. I was kicked out of school for financial reasons and found myself looking for food and clothing. I found comfort in knowing that God knows me and loves me as I am.

My personal relationship with God began when I was a young teenager at Young Life camp after hearing about the love of Jesus in cabin time. I grew up as a rude and proud child, but after prayer and time reading my Bible, God changed me and strengthened my faith. I am now actively involved in Young Life as a team leader. I also go to church and am in the prayer group there.

As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying business management at the Institute Supérieur du Développement Rural du Grand Lac in Goma. Without this scholarship, I would not be able to attend school. My goal is to take full advantage of this great opportunity and respond positively to the vision of the DGL program. With my degree, I want to specialize in the management and development of companies and want to bring positive change to my community.