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Young Adult Highlights
Iniobong Sunday: From Trainee to Trainer at the Gathering Place
At just 18 years old, Brother Iniobong Sunday is making waves in his community after training in barbering at the Gathering Place in the Ikot Akpatek Nigeria Stake. Now a skilled trainer, he is dedicated to teaching others the art of barbering, empowering them with valuable skills for their future.
In addition to mentoring aspiring barbers, Iniobong is actively offering his hair-cutting services within the community. He is saving his earnings to fund his upcoming missionary service, showcasing his commitment to personal growth and community service.
Grateful for the spiritual and practical blessings he has gained, Iniobong’s journey highlights the transformative power of the training received at the Gathering Place, where challenges lead to growth and opportunity. His story is an inspiring example of how investing in oneself can positively impact others and the community.
Evans Kwame Nyan: A Beacon of Faith
In Cape Coast, Ghana, Evans Kwame Nyan, a young single adult from the Yamoransa Ghana Stake, passionately shares the gospel as the instructor for the temple-preparation class in the Moree Second Ward. He has played a key role in teaching his cousin, ward members, and childhood friends about the importance of putting on the whole armor of God and becoming disciples of Christ by making sacred temple covenants.
Reflecting on his experiences, Evans shared, “Spending time with those I taught in the temple was a wonderful experience. I’ll always remember the feelings of joy I had standing with them.”
In addition to his spiritual commitments, Evans recently completed a driving course at his Gathering Place and is eager to pursue further education. His dedication to both faith and personal growth makes him a true inspiration in his community.
Kennedy’s Success at Work Thanks to the Gathering Place
Meet Kennedy Basatiweln Ntanan, a member of the Accra Ghana Madina Stake, who spoke at a recent relaunch of the Gathering Place. During the event, he shared how attending classes there transformed his professional life. Initially disengaged, he found a renewed purpose when a work opportunity emerged that required a detailed data summary. Thanks to the Microsoft tools he learned at the Gathering Place, he skillfully led his team in creating clear and effective graphs for a client.
This experience impressed his client and bolstered Kennedy’s reputation as a valuable employee. He credits his success to the skills and confidence gained at the Gathering Place, proving that education can unlock new opportunities and enhance careers. Kennedy is now an enthusiastic advocate for attending classes at the Gathering Place.
Sisterhood and Service: A Heartwarming Visit to the Quilting Class
Elder Ojediran and Elder Morrison of the Seventy, the first and second counselors in the Africa West Area Presidency, visited Sister Doan’s quilting class at the Accra Ghana Christiansborg Stake center. They were genuinely impressed by the variety of quilt patterns on display, highlighting the creative possibilities available to every participant.
Among the attendees was Victoria Danso, a young single adult (YSA) who has a call to serve a mission in Ibadan, Nigeria. In a conversation with Elder Ojediran, she learned that Ibadan was his hometown. He mentioned that he occasionally visits Ibadan and hopes to see her adjusting well to her missionary activities. She showed him the quilted fabric she had completed. She plans to use it to make a tote bag to take with her when she enters the missionary training center shortly.
Another YSA in the class, Irene Ankrah, had been taking missionary lessons and said the quilting class’s warm and friendly atmosphere allowed her to ask questions about the Church in a comfortable setting. She explained that many of her questions were answered as she spoke with the ladies and, therefore, felt confident in her decision to be baptized.
The quilting sessions on Thursdays have cultivated a sense of community among YSAs and Relief Society sisters. Together, they learn a valuable skill and share testimonies of Jesus Christ, strengthening their bond of sisterhood.
Every attendee expressed gratitude for Sister Doan, whose exceptional tutoring and cheerful spirit make each class a treasured experience. Fun fact: In addition to being a creative quilter, Sister Doan is an enthusiastic whistler, adding an extra layer of joy to her classes!