Sofiya

My name is Sofiya, and I live in one of the least developed countries in the world. Due to years of self-imposed and geographic isolation, we experience great disparity. I was raised as the youngest child in a Hindu family whose home was plagued with alcoholism and violence. There was no peace to be found in our household. I sought refuge in school as I immersed myself in my studies and sports. I cried a lot and thought often of taking my own life. It wasn’t until I was invited into the Christian home of my older sister that I began to see that life could be different. It could be happier and healthier. I found the reason to love myself and those around me when I found Jesus.

Being a Christian is incredibly rare where we live. In fact, less than 2% of our population is Christian, and those who are, often face religious persecution. When I had the opportunity to visit my sister's home and attend her Christian youth group one summer, I experienced something that was far removed from anything I had ever experienced before. People were laughing, praising, praying, and preaching. When I was presented with the Gospel, I knew it was something my heart longed for - to be wholly loved. When I began my relationship with Jesus, I felt peace come over me. From that day forward, I have been called to share the good news with others.

As a Developing Global Leader, I aim to be the first college graduate in my family. I am pursuing an accounting degree at a local university. I want to work in the banking industry and build a future for my family and tell all those I encounter about the love of God.