“If you want to judge how well a person understands Christianity, find out how much he makes of the thought of being God’s child, and having God as his Father.” - JI Packer

Imagine growing up without a father. No one to play catch with or kick a ball. A home where a mother does everything she can just to make ends meet.

For over 60% of the youth in South Africa, this is the reality. Over 15 years ago, South African local, Chris van de Merwe founded "Inspired to Become - AKA I2B" with the hope of investing into the lives of the next generation, helping youth become the men and women God created them to be. The skatepark may not have beds and kids might not sleep there, but for many, the park is their home. It’s not just a place where they go—but it is a place there they live. It is where they come alive.

South Africa’s unemployment rate is nearly 1 in 3. The percentage of kids growing up without a father is more than double that. There’s no quick fix. The youth may not have a father at home—but at the skatepark they have someone who is not only like a father but they are being pointed toward and taught about their perfect Heavenly Father who will never leave them. It is this Father who is rewriting their story.

We are honored to bring you Episode 17, "South Africa".