José Antonio

My name is José, and I live in Chichigalpa, Nicaragua. My childhood until I was eight years old was perfect even though there were adversities; I always had a complete family, mom and dad next to me. When I was eight years old, my sister was born with an illness, and we experienced even more challenges. I grew up practically alone in the sight of my grandparents who were of limited economic resources; in a home where I had to learn to be independent in many aspects.

I met Jesus through my grandparents and my sister; it was the greatest solution and process for me to be able to change and grow as a person. I connected with Young Life through a friend. I am now part of this “Young Life family” that has helped me grow hand in hand with Jesus as a son, a friend, a human being, and a student and I am improving, giving all I can give.

I thank God for the opportunity for this Developing Global Leaders scholarship. Before I knew about this, I assumed that I would never be able to study at university due to family finances. But God has worked as always for good, and now I am pursuing a degree in industrial engineering at the National University of Engineering. My goals are to work and serve with the same love as always, continuing to grow within the ministry and express my gratitude in everything I do. I will be the first person in my family to graduate from university.