Heart For South America
The city of Trujillo has a population of 1 million and 50,000 -100,000 university students.
These university students often face a myriad of social and personal challenges. Many come from families with limited economic resources, experience heightened academic pressure, or struggle to balance work and school obligations. In addition to these stresses, there are few readily accessible mentorship programs to guide them through the critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. As a result, issues such as low self-esteem, lack of direction, and a sense of isolation can arise, hindering students’ personal growth and academic success.
Furthermore, in this formative stage of life, many students actively seek meaning and identity. Many feel disconnected or overwhelmed by new responsibilities and freedoms. This season of searching creates an openness to deeper conversations—about faith, personal values, and life purpose. However, the availability of spiritual mentorship that incorporates spiritual development with academic and life guidance is limited. Without supportive networks or faith-based communities, these students may struggle to navigate challenges such as discouragement, unhealthy relationships, or destructive coping mechanisms.
Addressing this need through a mentoring and gospel-centered initiative is crucial because it meets students at a pivotal juncture: they are forming habits, worldviews, and relationships that will shape the trajectory of their adult lives. By offering consistent mentorship, emotional support, life skills training, and opportunities to explore Christianity in a relational setting, this project can bridge the gap between students’ felt needs and their longing for purpose. Equipping young adults with both practical skills and spiritual foundations not only impacts their immediate well-being, but also empowers them to become responsible, compassionate leaders and influencers—ultimately bringing positive transformation to their campuses and the broader community in Northern Trujillo.
Our Approach
Relational, Hands-On Approach
Our team is committed to personal discipleship modeled after Jesus’s ministry—meeting with students one-on-one, walking alongside them, and offering holistic support. This deep level of relational investment ensures that students feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for.
Local Partnerships and Accountability
By partnering with local churches, fellow missionaries, and community organizations, we tap into existing networks and resources, enabling us to serve more effectively. We remain accountable to the Lord, our supporters, and our local partners, ensuring transparent, culturally sensitive, and sustainable efforts.
Practical Skills and Contextual Experience
Our diverse backgrounds and professional experiences, ranging from language instruction (English, Spanish, Portuguese) to sports engagement, allow us to connect with students in organic, relatable ways. These skills open doors to meaningful relationships, through which we can offer mentorship and spiritual guidance that resonates with students’ day-to-day realities.
Holistic Ministry Emphasis
Recognizing that students and community members often face both physical and spiritual struggles, we respond by addressing immediate needs (like food assistance) while also offering discipleship, prayer, and leadership development. This balanced, multi-faceted approach allows us to address deeper hunger for purpose, belonging, and faith.
Long-Term Vision for Revival and Empowerment
Our passion for revival in Trujillo extends beyond short-term missions. We train and equip local believers to become mentors and leaders within their own communities. This focus on discipleship multiplication ensures a lasting impact that continues to grow well after our direct involvement.
By blending spiritual mentorship, practical support, and genuine relationships, we provide a uniquely comprehensive response to the challenges university students and the broader community face in Northern Trujillo. Our adaptability, local collaboration, and unwavering commitment to sharing the gospel position us to serve effectively and foster transformational change.