What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Erin. I was born in Singapore but I grew up in Atlanta, GA. I did not stay there long, and ended up moving to California soon after.

Please describe your background

I grew up with a brother and a sister. My brother’s name is Ethan and he is two years older than me. My sister’s name is Erika and she is one year younger than me. My parents have always been very strong Christians, if it was not for them I don’t know where I would be today. I am in 8th grade at a Christian school. I love that I get to learn about God and have teachers who are guiding me in my walk with God.

List one experience you’ve shared in H-Gen that started it all for you, or resonates with you the most.

If I had to list one experience that started it all for me, I’d have to pick the youth camp. For me, youth camp was so impactful. I remember getting on the bus that would be taking us to camp, and I did not know what to expect. The camp itself lasted three days, but the first night really started it all for me. I began to discover a new hunger for the Lord, and I began to connect with my leaders and friends who also attended youth camp. I was able to experience a new found freedom. It’s hard to narrow down just one thing about H-Gen that started it all for me, so I’d also have to say connect groups also played a role in my growing hunger for the Lord. I love that I can learn so much and apply that to my everyday life. I’d have two say these two events really started it all for me.

If you had the entire world’s attention, and knew that every living person on Earth would hear you, what would you say?

If I had the entire world’s attention I would say “ Everyone listen. God has a plan for your life. Whether you believe in Him or not, God is real. You are not alone and you were created with a purpose”.

If you were brand new to H-Gen what is one thing you would tell yourself?

If I were brand new to H-Gen I would tell myself that I should not be trying to impress others. I should focus on God, be free, and have an open heart.

What led you to get involved in H-Gen and what made you stay?

My youth leaders play a huge role in my involvement with H-Gen. They are very loving and accepting. It was the growth that I experienced in H-Gen that made me want to stay. I was able to see how free I’ve become because of my involvement in this youth community.

How has your life been impacted through H-Gen?

My life has been greatly impacted through H-Gen. I’ve made great friendships and deepened my relationships with others. I know that in H-Gen I have a community of people who care for me and love me. I’ve grown so much in my knowledge of God and have a great relationship with Him because of this awesome group of people.

Discuss how you have grown as a person because of H-Gen?

I have also grown as a person because of H-Gen. I was very insecure of my appearance and in H-Gen I found acceptance for who I am. I know that I still have a lot to learn but because of H-Gen and the things I have learned I am able to continue in my walk with God and choose Him each and every day.

How do you see yourself helping others through H-Gen in the near future?

I see myself helping others in H-Gen and bringing others to this community. I want to help them get connected and focused on who they are living for. I can also show others the importance of accepting God.

In your own words describe the heart behind the ministry.

The heart behind H-Gen is to raise up leaders to help connect others to a community who love God, love people, and love life.