Anna

My name is Anya, I live in the city of Chernivtsi in western Ukraine with my parents. I remember my mom telling me stories about God, they were interesting and exciting. But it wasn't until I became a teenager, when I was very introverted and didn't talk to many people, did I start to remember these stories and think about something more than just everyday things. I began to strive to learn more about God, I often thought about spiritual things and sought answers to my questions.

I remember one night I asked God to introduce me to believers who would be an example to me. Two weeks later, my friend invited me to a Young Life club. Later, I went to my first camp, where I reflected on my relationship with God and realized that I wanted to follow Jesus and trust Him. Now I can say that it was through this path of change that I became the person I am today. In Young Life, I not only found God, but also a loving community where I can express myself and be sure that I will always be supported. Now I am part of the team and serve the girls of my city as a Young Life leader.

As a participant of the Developing Global Leaders program, I am studying marketing, which is something I really enjoy. I love all kinds of creativity. My parents are retired, so in addition to studying, I work on weekends as a waitress to help my family. Therefore, this program will help me to quit this job and devote more time to ministry and studies. I believe that continued education is a start to adulthood and greater personal development and will allow me to find a job and provide for myself and my family in the future.