Maryeling

From a young age, Maryeling has spent her life searching for stability and longing for connection. Born in Matagalpa, Nicaragua, she and her mother moved back and forth between Nicaragua and Costa Rica, where her father lived. Unfortunately, childhood was filled with conflict—between her parents, from bullying at school as she tried to overcome learning difficulties, and deeply painful experiences within her own family. These struggles created a heavy weight of insecurity and loneliness for Maryeling.

Yet, through it all, faith became a light in the darkness for Maryeling. She shares, “I grew up knowing about Jesus, but I was always taught about him as a punishing God, however, as I got involved with Young Life, the image I had of God changed. I came to know that he was an understanding God of love who forgave.” The welcoming environment she found at club allowed her to feel accepted for who she is, which became an anchor when so much of her life felt uncertain.

Now a Developing Global Leader, Maryeling is pursuing a degree in social work from National Autonomous University of Nicaragua. Looking forward, she hopes to make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people in her community, helping them grow in their own faith and find confidence in their leadership skills. Maryeling’s story is a journey characterized by resilience, and she is determined to share the hope she has with others.