Joseph

My name is Joe and I live in Southampton, England, with my mother and father. I  grew up with my two older sisters. Both my father and one of my sisters are disabled. My sister's disability is severe and, as a result, a lot of my childhood felt lost due to caring for them. This, along with other factors, ultimately led to my own struggles with mental health, anxiety and depression during my teenage years. I struggled in school and in my relationships with others because of this. 

I was raised in a Christian family with my parents both having their own faith. However, I still searched for peace, love and joy in other areas of life to no avail. Out of desperation, I turned back to God and came to realize that true peace and forgiveness is only found in Jesus. My faith became real to me and I understood the necessity of a personal relationship with Him. From this moment, I felt God's calling to reach the lost, especially young people who are hurting like I was. I began serving as a youth worker at my church and was then introduced to Young Life. I am now serving in the ministry by helping with clubs and campaigner groups.

As a recipient of the Developing Global Leaders scholarship, I am studying theology and Christian ministry at St. Mellitus College in London. With my degree, my hope is to have a career in full-time ministry, where I will be able to dedicate my whole life to loving, caring and sharing the good news of Jesus with young people. I am also hoping to personally grow in my own relationship with God and as I study theology.