NG28823 Nehemiah is from Mayuge and is the tenth of twelve siblings. Growing up, his father had multiple wives, and the aging parents were unable to adequately support their large family. Fortunately, Nehemiah was able to be enrolled in Africa Renewal’s Child Development Program and received a sponsor, giving him opportunities that he never would have had access to otherwise.

Before being connected to Africa Renewal, Nehemiah’s family practiced tribal religions. As Nehemiah became enfolded into the program, the impact of community from the local church, lessons at Sunday school, activities at Center Days, and discipleship at camp impressed on him the importance of knowing God. Through his involvement in the CDP, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and began growing in taking steps of faith and putting his trust in God more fully. He is now known as the pastor of his family, leading them in daily devotions. Their home, which was once a place for ritual sacrifices, has become a place of prayer and a beacon of the light of Christ.

When he graduated from high school, the CDP staff recognized Nehemiah as a leader among the community and gave him the chance to attend Africa Renewal’s Transformational Leadership Training. Before this experience, Nehemiah had struggled with fear and timidity, but he has grown in courage, maturity, and the confidence to express himself.

He is faithfully involved in his church community, serving as an interpreter, and working with the youth ministry, and he remains connected and active in the Next Generation Leadership Program community even though he has not yet received an NGLP sponsorship. He attests that his character and talents have been formed in and through Africa Renewal and is thankful that his leadership potential has been cultivated for the glory of God. Nehemiah hopes to study clinical medicine. He has done well in biology, chemistry, and math, and hopes to be able to serve those around him through developing as a skilled medical personnel. It is not common to find a Christian doctor in the Mayuge area, so Nehemiah hopes that this course of study will give him a platform to reach out to all people and extend to them both physical care and the hope of the gospel.

Nehemiah, reflecting on the impact of Africa Renewal’s programs in his life: “This graduated me into adulthood. My timid nature left me without a trace, and it introduced me to pro-activeness.”