Cart TotalUpdate
Young people in the mission - YOUTH ADVOCATES 2025
Engaging young people in the mission is a responsibility we embrace with great joy and enthusiasm.
This year, we had the privilege of sending eight dedicated Youth Advocates on an unforgettable journey to Nepal, led by Gillian, LMNZ Executive Director.
They had the opportunity to witness firsthand the life-changing work taking place at the Leprosy Mission Anandaban Hospital and in the surrounding communities, and to better understand the challenges faced by those affected by leprosy.
The mission of the Youth Advocates, upon their return to New Zealand, is to share a special project they are committed to supporting with their churches, friends and families.
Their goal this year is to raise funds for a much-needed new vehicle for Anandaban Hospital. This vehicle will be essential in transporting staff, medical supplies, and equipment between the hospital and satellite clinics in remote areas. In places where infrastructure is limited, this vehicle will bridge the gap, ensuring that essential healthcare services reach those who need them most.
We will keep you updated with their fundraising efforts in this coming year. If you like to support the Youth Advocates, please visit YAS25-fundraising.
Some of the Youth Advocates share their thoughts and experiences with you!
“I don’t think I’ve ever been sad to leave a hospital before, but Anandaban Hospital is different...I was also deeply moved by the immense joy expressed by the patients, despite their challenges.”
- Caleb Corban
“...It made me realise just how lucky we are to live in an accessible country. It inspired me to fundraise for this cause, so we can help provide everyone, specially those in remote communities....”
- Heidi Caughley
"As a medical student, it was very eye-opening for me to be able to observe the holistic work that goes into treating such a complex disease...It was both inspiring and humbling to talk to the medical team, like Dr. Indra and the counsellor Ruth, who serve with such dedication, knowledge, and compassion.”
- Sylvia McDougall
Come with us in 2026! Applications are open now!
For more information, please go to leprosymission.org.nz/youth-advocates
