Gorleston Youth Worker starts after year wait 

Gabi Groenewald-Simmons has recently started her role as Youth Worker for Identity Youth Project after facing difficulties obtaining a visa to work in the UK for the Christian charity located in Gorleston. Gabi, originally from South Africa, had completed a theological course in Bristol and felt called to stay in England. She had been exploring job options in the UK when the opportunity with Identity Youth Project arose. She was particularly drawn to the project’s focus on uniting churches to reach young people for Christ, as she had experienced challenges in South Africa with churches collaborating on youth initiatives. Despite the 13-month wait for her visa, Gabi remained positive and trusted in God’s plan for her future. She finally arrived in the UK in September and started working in October.

Gabi is excited to build relationships with the youth in the area and learn about their perspectives on God’s involvement in their lives. She is looking forward to engaging in small group work and providing a space for young people to open up and share. Anna Price, Chair of Trustees for Identity Youth Project, expressed gratitude for Gabi’s appointment and emphasized her experience and theological training as valuable assets for the role. They hope Gabi will bring encouragement to local churches in reaching out to young people for Christ. They also encourage anyone interested in getting involved with Identity to reach out via email.

Gabi’s journey to the UK was filled with uncertainty due to the visa process, but she maintained her faith and trust in God throughout. She believes that even if things had fallen apart, God would have had a plan for her. She is passionate about working with churches that collaborate and partner together to make a positive impact on youth in the community. As a full-time Youth Minister, Gabi is eager to support and unite churches across Gorleston and beyond in their mission to reach young people. Her husband James recognized a renewed sense of excitement in her after her interview for the role, indicating that Gabi felt confident she had found the right fit for her skills and passions.

Gabi’s arrival in the UK marks a significant milestone for Identity Youth Project, as they welcome her with open arms and hope for positive outcomes in their efforts to engage with young people. Gabi’s blend of experience and theological training makes her an ideal candidate for the role, and the project’s leadership trusts that she will be a valuable asset to the community. They are looking forward to the impact she will have on the local churches and the young people they serve. Overall, Gabi’s journey to the UK and eventual start at Identity Youth Project showcases her resilience, faith, and dedication to working with youth to bring them closer to Christ.