Young People's Perspectives

We have now interviewed twenty-two young people who have participated in faith-based volunteering projects in Latin America. We interviewed all twenty-two young people before they departed for Latin America and then again when they returned to the UK. 14 young people also completed a diary whilst in Latin America, reflecting on their experiences whilst in the field.

Focus groups have also taken place at the Latin Link de-briefing event, at a church group and at a dissemination event for research participants that was held in Newcastle on 29th January. We are now analysing the data collected and are writing up our final report. Here is a snapshot of some of the young people's perspectives:

Deciding to volunteer...
Rita: …at the moment I know and I am not restricted I have the time to go and do what God has asked me to do because I am free and don’t have many barriers to get past.

Hopes for spiritual growth ...
Rosy: … I am expecting for myself and the team spiritual growth, as we learn from them, as we grow in fellowship, as we read the Bible together, as we understand more on what he tells us to do through the Bible and through his word. I will completely leave room for the Lord to work in any way but I am not expecting... I am expecting the Lord to work in the way he works.

Growing up ...
Tony: I definitely feel grown up and my leadership skills have been put to the test