My name is Alla. I live in Odesa, a large industrial city in southern Ukraine. I was born into a large family with four older sisters. A week after I was born, our mother passed away and my father had to raise us alone. From the age of seven, I was often alone - going to school, making my own food, and doing homework - so I learned to take care of myself quickly. Along with becoming more independent, I often felt lonely. To socialize and make friends, I tried to join as many activities as I could. I always wanted to go to camp, but we never had enough money. The first camp I went to was Young Life, thanks to someone who paid for me.  

One of the most formative experiences in my life has been the war. What began as shock and fear for my life and my loved ones gradually became a source of inner strength and a rethinking of my values. I met Jesus at a Young Life camp a year after the war started, where I felt warmth and acceptance. I always believed that I had to earn it, but God showed me He loves me just like that. Working with teens is a joyful and shaping part of my journey - encouraging, guiding, and simply being there for them. Helping others find hope, identity, and purpose gives me a deeper sense of who I want to be. I have a deep heart for teenagers because I remember what it’s like to search for support and warmth during hard times.  

As a Developing Global Leader, I dream of earning a degree in Management and Logistics. I hope that my education will open more career opportunities for me. University helps not only to gain knowledge but also to grow as a person: to become more organized, focused, and mature.