Anastasiia

My name is Anastasiia, and I live in Kyiv, Ukraine, with my parents and my younger sister. I had a happy childhood, enjoying school and studying piano, but my family also experienced difficult seasons. When I was nine, my mother became seriously ill and has required ongoing treatment which affected our family financially. Later our lives were deeply impacted by the war. Living in Ukraine's capital, where missile attacks are a constant reality, has taught me to value every day, appreciate my family, and trust God in uncertain circumstances.

I became involved in church during my early teenage years, but at that time faith did not have a significant impact on my life. A few years later, I realized how deeply I needed God and chose to return to church, where my relationship with Jesus became personal. There I was introduced to Young Life through families in my church who had served in the ministry for many years. I first was engaged as a volunteer, and for the past year I have been leading teenagers through clubs, contact work, events, and creative projects. Young Life has helped me grow in responsibility, compassion, and confidence, especially by teaching me to step out of my comfort zone and build relationships with new people.

Today, as DGL participant, I am studying at the State University of Trade and Economics, a place I chose not only for its academic program but also because it encourages students to grow through creative activities, sports, and community life. I believe university will help me become more responsible, independent, and prepared for my future.