We would like to introduce you to one of our incredible Guatemalan team members, Christian Umul. He works with youth-at-risk [Learn more here] and is an essential part of the Vidas Plenas team. We asked Christian a few questions about himself and what motivates him to work in such a challenging environment every day.

Where are you from?
I am from Guatemala, the beautiful municipality of San Miguel Petapa (south of Guatemala City).

Describe yourself in three words:
Loyal, nice, friendly.

What motivates you to this work?
Knowing that this is not a job but service to God. I am working in the Kingdom of God, rescuing souls.

What is your position in Vidas Plenas?
In the mornings, I work with Gadiel in the rescue program leading youth who are deep in darkness to hope, demonstrating the love God has for their lives. In the afternoons, I work in the Vidas Plenas office, driving the van to receive donations and purchase supplies for the academies.

Why go to a dangerous place every day to work?
I used to be scared by all the talk of La Limonada. But coming into the community, I realized that all people need love, affection, and understanding.

What grieves you the most?
I have to take advantage of each day with the young people because tomorrow I may not have the opportunity.

What gives you the most hope in your work?
To see the progress of young people – it may be that nobody sees the changes, but we share with them how we can see what Jesus has done in their lives.

What is your prayer for La Limonada?
I pray they would no longer be marginalized people and would reach the light of God.

– Lizza Majus and Katie Hoiland