IMPACT Club Transforms Ezaquel: A Journey of Community Service

Ezaquel's journey from troublemaker to IMPACT Leader was marked by profound transformation. His past was marred by aggression and disregard for others, leading him astray and causing concern among his community, especially his parents.

Having been involved in violent actions, Ezaquel seemed destined for a bleak future. However, an opportunity for change presented itself when the chief leader of his community invited him to attend a training session organized by World Vision.

Despite facing skepticism from his peers due to his troubled history, Ezaquel threw himself into the program. Through the support of the Roman ba Foin-sa’e project, funded by the New Zealand Government, he and other young people received crucial leadership training and learned about important topics like child protection and gender-based violence.

"After gaining pieces of training, I learned a lot about how to be well-behaved," Ezaquel reflects. "Other participants started listening to my voice when I spoke in front. I slowly gained back the trust of the community, especially my parents. I have now become an IMPACT Leader."

In his new role, Ezaquel is determined to ensure that the adolescents of his community avoid the same mistakes he made. He shares his own experiences openly during sessions, aiming to guide others away from violence and towards positive change.

Ezaquel also helps to teach his friends who are unable to read and write: “I was happy when I saw one of my IMPACT Members going up to the stage, reading the Bible during Mass. At first, he could not read, but now he can read it well. There were tears in my eyes when I saw it, because I feel proud of myself how far I have gone now.”

Ezaquel's story serves as a testament to the power of second chances and the impact of community support. Through his dedication and leadership, he inspires others to break free from destructive behaviors and embrace a brighter future.