Julia

My name is Julia and I grew up in Moldova, a former Soviet country where my family had to face the hardships of an economic and political crisis. Families were struggling, and finding appropriate housing and education proved incredibly difficult. This instability limited my education and, ultimately, my future. My parents and I made the difficult decision to send me to the UK to live with relatives so that I could complete my compulsory education. During this time of so much personal change, the world encountered a global pandemic. Everything was different and I felt isolated and fearful.

Gratefully, in the midst of all this chaos, I met Jesus. I was raised in a non-Christian household and had never heard about the Gospel until my UK family invited me to their church. After church one day, while struggling with self-worth and anxiety, something shared during the service came to mind: I was never alone in anything I was facing. At that moment, I realized I needed Jesus. His faithfulness reassures me that no matter what storms I go through, my Savior controls the wind and the waves. I don’t have to rely on my own strength. Today, I am grateful to have found community and ways to share the Gospel through Young Life.

As a Developing Global Leader, I attend Queen’s University in Belfast where I am studing English and linguistics. This degree will open many doors for me to share the love of Jesus and to become a better friend and leader for the young people around me. My relationship with Jesus has opened my eyes to a new world, new community, and new friendships. I now know that there is a plan and purpose for my life.