Hey guys!! It’s time for another update! Some big changes have happened for next year that I can’t wait to tell you about!
Route Change (again)!
Just about a month ago, I was told that there hadn’t been enough people who signed up for the gap year program this year. My previous route (Guatemala, Eswatini, South Africa, and Indonesia) happened to be the route with the least amount of people on it, so it got cut, and I had to choose a new route. This was a tough decision for me, and it took a lot of prayer, consideration, and talking through it. After all that, I ended up choosing a new route that I feel called to and really excited about! This past month, I’ve been getting used to telling people the new countries where I’ll be going, as well as finding myself genuinely looking forward to these new places! It was definitely a big switch for me, but I know God’s got a plan, and I’m so ready to see what He’s got in store for us. SO, the new route will be Ethiopia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Guatemala!!
First is Ethiopia, which is located in the Horn of Africa, and known as the birthplace of coffee! Despite its beauty and significance, Ethiopia has faced deep pain from civil war and famine. Many rural communities still live in isolation, without access to clean water, education, or basic services. While we’re there, we’ll be partnering with local ministries to meet physical needs and share the love of Jesus with people in different communities. Personally, I’ve wanted to go to Ethiopia for a long time and explore the cultures there, so I’m super excited about this one!
Next, we’ll head to Thailand, which is nicknamed the Land of Smiles! While it is famous for its tropical beaches and vibrant cities, Thailand faces deep spiritual and social challenges. It is one of the most unreached nations in the world and is marked by the realities of sex trafficking and exploitation. During our time in Thailand, we’ll have opportunities to do meaningful work in red-light districts, build relationships with locals, play with street kids, teach English, and serve in places longing for healing and freedom.
After that, we’ll travel to Cambodia. Cambodia is a land of resilience and hope. Even after the trauma of a genocide that took the lives of millions, the Cambodian people are rebuilding with strength and a generous spirit. While we are there, we’ll serve in local communities and uplift them in love and support.
Our last stop is Guatemala! This one was the only country that overlapped my previous route. In Guatemala, where many people face poverty, we’ll be working with locals to share the love of Jesus with the communities. We’ll teach English, support children and families, and help provide for those struggling to meet their basic needs.
Other news…
As far as other news for you, I’m finishing up my senior year, which has definitely kept me busy! Between schoolwork, my job, an increasing amount of events, and soaking up these last few months with friends and family, life has been full recently. It’s a bit surreal that this season is coming to a close, but I’m so grateful for all the memories and growth it’s brought. As things wrap up, I’m also starting to shift my focus toward preparing for what’s ahead with the gap year. It’s a lot, but it’s all so exciting!
This summer, I’ll be mostly sticking around home and working. From the end of June to the start of August, I’ll be nannying for a family in my neighborhood. On weekends, I’m hoping to spend my time hiking or camping with friends!
Fundraising & Thank You!!
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how blessed and thankful I am, and honestly, it’s hard to put into words. Over the past few months, I’ve felt so supported, encouraged, and cheered on by so many people, and it’s meant more than I can say. Whether it’s been a kind message, a prayer, or a donation, each one has reminded me that I’m not walking this journey alone, and that’s such a gift.
As far as fundraising goes, I’m so excited to share that I’m almost halfway there! I seriously can’t believe it. It’s been so cool to watch how God is showing up in all of this, and often in ways I didn’t expect. He’s been teaching me to trust Him more, and I’ve been blown away by how He’s used my friends, family, and even people I don’t know that well to show up for me.
I truly feel so blessed by the community around me. Your love and support has helped carry me through, and I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart! I’m so grateful, and I’m really looking forward to everything that’s ahead!!
Bye for now!
That’s about it for now! I’m really looking forward to all that’s ahead and continuing to get things ready, so I’ll be sure to keep sharing updates as everything continues to come together. And if you think of it, I’d love some prayers as I finish up senior year. It’s a full season, but an exciting one!!
Much love,
Kezia
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