Sarah Bechmanis, 20
Sarah was a gap psychology undergraduate, completing her sandwich year as a volunteer at Gilead. Whilst here, she gained experience in counselling, group therapy, working with the girls ("peer-mentoring"), and administration.
"Part of my course requires me to do a 12 month work placement relevant to my degree, and GF appealed so strongly for two main reasons: a lifestyle diffrent to anything I've ever experienced, and the many exciting opportunities here that can't be found anywhere else! From milking to marketing, and cooking to counselling, the range of tasks available enables me to work in a professional context and live in a caring, Christian community at the same time.
I'm always learning new things, whether it's counselling, screening, or even what makes me tick. I took part in the Genesis Process training course, and have been in weekly group therapy sessions since then. These have helped equip me to face issues that may arise from living and working in this kind of environment. It hasnt always been easy, but the challenges have been rewarding and a chance to grow in a safe, grace-based environment. It has definitely been a tremendously worthwhile experience!"
Jesse Fidelack, 22
Jesse came from Canada for 2 years, after graduating from Bible College at Into His Harvest, Canada, and was involved in farming and peer-mentoring the guys, doing evening duties with them, taking them out, etc. As well as learning many practical farming and machine-mechanical skills, he is pasionate about seeing people set free and growing in their relationship with God. Jesse has returned to Canada to study for a degree in Socal work.