Szonja

Szonja is a social science student at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary. She shares, “I grew up in the riverside town of Szentendre with my parents who have always been loving and supportive. My older sister and I have a great relationship. There are difficulties because I am the only Christian in my household, but I know my parents want the best for me.” When Szonja was thirteen years old, she was invited to a youth camp by one of her closest friends. That invitation changed her life. “After hearing and feeling the Lord’s presence that week, I felt drawn to Him. This started my journey with Jesus.” A few years later, she heard about Young Life and that the camp in Budapest needed more volunteers. Szonja explains, “My initial plan was to volunteer at a different camp but was told I was too young to serve. So, I responded to yet another invitation, and I agreed to go to the Young Life camp. I went, and it was one of the best 'yeses’ of my life.” As a Young Life leader, I want to walk with girls and invite them into the full life of walking with Jesus. Now, being a part of the Developing Global Leaders program, Szonja is eager to pursue a career in community organization. “Through the DGL program, I hope to develop the leadership skills necessary to become an effective leader in my field. I am eager to use my experiences to positively impact others and help them grow in their own journeys with Christ.”