Elissa

My name is Elissa and I live in the Jordan River area with my father, mother, brother, grandmother, uncle and his family. We are all very close. My parents faced significant economic and social challenges during my childhood, but they trusted God and instilled in me those same strong faith values. I have also always been passionate about soccer, despite societal disapproval for women in the sport. I currently play for a club team and the national women’s team. I am also a professional dancer in a traditional dance group here. My relationship with Jesus began as a child, nurtured by my family’s strong Orthodox Christian faith in God and regular church attendance. From a young age, I went to church regularly and participated in various activities there. However, my faith grew when I joined Young Life at thirteen years old. I went to camp and found community and spiritual wisdom, helping me understand and connect with Jesus on a deeper level. My relationship with Christ has now become a central part of my life, guiding me in all my endeavors. I am now a volunteer leader with Young Life, WyldLife and Capernaum. As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying science and medicine at a local university and majoring in dentistry. I will be the first person in my family to graduate from university. When I graduate, I want to work with children and promote dental health awareness. I also want to continue my leadership role in Young Life as I support and mentor the next generation in their spiritual journeys.