Fortune

My name is Fortune. I live with my father and four siblings in Buseleni, a small town in Eswatini. My mother passed away when I was a child, and my father iss an elderly man who was unable to work. Coming from poverty and being the eldest, I had to take on the role of breadwinner and focused on helping my siblings with food and school fees. I did not attend school for three years and sold chips and sweets to help provide for my family. I was determined to take care of them, but was experiencing much heartache and despair.

Everything changed when I was at my lowest and heard the voice of Jesus. I was overwhelmed and cried and knew put my faith in Christ. Walking the Christian life alone was not easy and when it became difficult, I started to consider backsliding. Gratefully, I was introduced to Young Life which brought me closer to Christ because I no longer felt alone. I was surrounded by a Christian community who supported me and I began laughing again and feeling loved. I now volunteer as a team leader, hoping to offer the same kindness I was shown.

As a Developing Global Leader, I am excited to be the first in my family to attend university. I am studying health sciences at Southern Africa Nazarene University to earn a pharmaceutical degree. I believe that God is expanding the boundaries I once felt confined by. I want to help others access the healthcare they need and to nurture future leaders. My goal is to establish a children’s village in my area to offer physical and spiritual care for other kids.