Shona Irwin – Sponsor a Student

My name is Shona Irwin. My personal motivation for this GAP year program is to further ground and grow myself in the Christian faith. The opportunity to be a part of this GAP year programme will challenge my faith as I undertake new overseas missions as well as furthering my knowledge through study and mentoring. This programme will also help grow my confidence in myself as I lived with anxiety since the age of 9, moving to a new city will be a big step for me and I’m determined to tackle this new challenge. This GAP year will be a nice transition from school life before I head out and pursue a career in horticulture. It will also be helpful to root myself in my faith further and have a deeper understanding in what I believe before I begin any tertiary studies.

I have had previous experience in serving the Grace Church community. I am a member of the Rotorua Grace Church and have also helped serve at the Bethlehem Baptist Church. I have also been part of Redeemer church mission teams, going to different parts of NZ, and helping to run kids bible holiday clubs.

Already having previous experience on missions as well as having pre-established relationships with the people I will be serving and living in community with, will be a huge benefit to both the churches and myself next year.