Tinou

My name is Tinou and I live with my uncle in the Ziguinchor region in Senegal. I was raised in an animist village, where it is believed that objects, places, and creatures all possess spiritual essences. As a child, I believed I would become a chief, but my world changed with my parents' passing. I had to leave the village and live with my uncle in Ziguinchor to survive. Meeting basic needs and paying for my education was a struggle. I labored in sites to earn enough money for food and to attend school. There was much adversity which made it hard to see a brighter future.
While in Ziguinchor, battling a severe illness, my life changed for the better when I met a Christian couple who prayed over me. Their words and prayers about Jesus offered me so much peace. I immediately knew He was someone I needed and wanted in my life. Upon accepting a relationship with Him, I received strong opposition from my family. According to tradition, I was to replace my grandfather as chief of our village and continue the animist ways. My family punished me for pursuing Christianity, but my faith was unwavering and I have found a supportive faith family through my church and Young Life.
As a Developing Global Leader, I will be the first college graduate in my family. I am studying engineering and computer science from Higher Institute of Computer Science in Ziguinchor. I have a heart for the orphans in our country and hope to use my career's success to improve the well-being of those less fortunate and introduce others to my heavenly Father.