Edna

My name is Edna Yalew. I live in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, with my brothers and sisters. I lost my parents at a young age—my father and then my mother in different years—which was one of the biggest challenges of my life. I grew up in the SOS Children’s Village in Bahir Dar, where I learned resilience, hope, and the importance of community. Even as a child, I loved reading, praying, and learning new things. 

I grew up in a Christian family, but my personal relationship with Jesus began in high school through the Christian student fellowship. That fellowship, along with daily Bible reading and prayer, helped me walk closely with God. As an orphan, I have experienced God as both a Father and a Mother in my life—providing comfort, guidance, and love. Three life events that shaped me are becoming a child of Jesus, ministering in fellowship, and serving in my church as a kids’ teacher and choir leader. I also joined Young Life in high school and have now been a key leader for three years, helping young people grow in their faith.

Now a DGL, I want to complete my degree in business, start and manage a successful company, and use my leadership to serve as an example of faith in both work and ministry. I hope to know Jesus more deeply and bring more people into His kingdom.