Connie makes a difference at CHAT Camp

Malaysian-born former SU intern and volunteer, Connie, joined an incredible team of volunteer leaders in south-east Melbourne to share the love of Jesus with primary-aged campers at SU Australia CHAT Camp during the Easter holidays. 

CHAT camp helps young people engage with and learn from people from other cultures, as they follow in the footsteps of Jesus who calls us to love our neighbours. 

Connie has been living in Australia for 30 years, and knows the importance of breaking down preconceived cultural barriers and welcoming others as Jesus did.

“At CHAT Camp we talk about different cultures. We also play lots of sports and do arts, crafts and dance activities. But most of all, we get to listen to one another’s stories,” says Connie.

“I remember a Grade 6 girl who came by herself. She was hiding in the toilets because she was really shy. I went to speak with her and encouraged her to join in and stayed by her side that first day. After that, she was a different person. She felt welcomed and had lots of fun.”

“I really resonate with the aim of CHAT to welcome everyone, and treat everyone with respect. Everyone is on the same page, and you learn to listen and appreciate one another.”

Connie first got involved with CHAT during her Children, Youth and Family internship with SU Australia. She would volunteer at a local school for placement, while at the same time completing Bible college.

“I really enjoyed the practical side of the internship. Everything we covered was clearly grounded in the Bible,” says Connie.

“As a Christian, the purpose is to be the hands and feet of Jesus. No matter how hard it is and whatever you face, if you have the end goal in mind, you’re able to have compassion for others. In our hearts, I believe God created us to love one another.”

Thanks to your support, passionate leaders like Connie are being trained and equipped to make a difference in the lives of young people. To continue supporting this life-transforming work, head to su.org.au/donate today, or to find more about internships with SU Australia, click here.