Chosen teen leadership convention inspires next generation

More than 80 teens and their mentors from across Australia gathered from July 6 to 11 for the CHOSEN teen leadership convention, hosted by the Australian Union Conference (AUC) at Queensland Conference and Camping Centres (QCCC) in Brisbane.

Held every second year since 2008, the event invites Adventist teens aged 14 to 16 who have demonstrated leadership qualities in their local churches. Each conference also selects two mentors to support the teens throughout the program and continue mentoring them after the event.

The week featured a range of activities, workshops and guest speakers, including Northpine Christian College chaplain Pastor Shaun Lieder, ADRA Logan Community Centre manager Sam Luteru, author Sharon Witt, Professional Advantage Pty Ltd managing director Derek Rippingale, South Queensland Ministerial Association secretary (education) Pastor Neil Redman and Sarah Redman, AUC youth director Pastor Jeffrey Parker, and Honey and Gold founder and graphic designer Jordan Bariesheff.

“There is no doubt that there were many God-inspired moments throughout the week,” said Pastor Parker. “The impact on the teens is huge and we believe that many of them will be great leaders in the Church’s future. We are really excited to see what God does with the teens that attended. The possibilities are endless.”

Attendee Caitlin Hanbury from Western Australia expressed her appreciation for the event, “So beyond grateful for this incredible opportunity to attend CHOSEN and being able to meet such amazing, inspiring people. I loved every single moment and will cherish this experience forever!”

Mentor and Gilson College Community Church youth pastoral worker Zion Meleisea described the event as an unforgettable experience. “I had the privilege of mentoring 10 amazing 15- to 16-year-olds from Victoria, alongside my fellow mentor Tiarey Croft. The spiritual growth, the connections, and the energy of the event were incredibly impactful. It was so encouraging to see the grassroots of our Church vibrant, passionate and full of potential. The future is looking bright!”