Tayn’s Journey with Youth Encounter
Every hero’s journey begins with a challenge. For Tayn, it started when he was just 13 years old, struggling to find his way in a world that often felt overwhelming and disconnected. His story is one of transformation, hope, and discovering a purpose greater than himself.
Tayn faced challenges that no young teenager should have to navigate alone. He was battling an auditory screening disorder and learning difficulties, which led to disengagement in school, social isolation, and behavioural issues. Frustration, anger, and confusion clouded his life, pushing him to make poor friend choices and leading him down a path of depression and even suicidal thoughts. His self-esteem was at rock bottom, and he didn’t know how to manage his emotions. Tayn was searching for identity, purpose, and hope.
In 2016 Tayn's mother, sought help, recognizing that her son needed something different, something powerful. Youth Encounter’s Dirt Bike Therapy program became a lifeline, offering Tayn an outlet and a supportive community where he could feel understood. What began as a fun escape—riding dirt bikes—became the foundation for deeper emotional and spiritual growth.
One of Youth Encounter’s therapists, began meeting with Tayn for one-on-one sessions. These sessions were a turning point for him. As his mother recalls, “The one-on-one sessions gave Tayn something to look forward to during the school week. At first, it was only about the motorbikes, but soon, he realized it was a tool to help him deal with his feelings.”
With the dirt bike program as a foundation, Tayn began attending Youth Encounter’s teen camps, Connect gatherings, and mentoring programs. Through these initiatives, Tayn was given the tools to identify his triggers, work through his anger, and build confidence. His involvement in the camps introduced him to a community that accepted him unconditionally. He found a safe space where judgment was replaced with encouragement, and Tayn began to see a future beyond the struggles he faced.
As he says now, “There’s something about it that makes you want to go back. They don’t try to fix you or judge you as a person. They think you are awesome because of who you are.”
Tayn's transformation was remarkable. After attending his first camp, his family saw an immediate change. He began rebuilding relationships with his loved ones and even started attending a youth group at a local church, engaging with faith in a way he had never done before. “I didn’t really have a relationship with God before,” Tayn shared. “But since joining Youth Encounter, I feel happy about myself and don’t feel like I have to prove myself to anyone.”
With the support of Youth Encounter’s incredible volunteer mentors, Tayn found a solid friendship group and learned to manage his emotions in healthier ways. He began volunteering as a young leader at camps himself, eager to give back to the community that had given him so much. As Tayn put it, “Now I have a group I can rely on, and I’m starting to give volunteering a go, being a young leader on camps. I can give back to people what they gave me; they’re where I started.”
Today, Tayn is thriving. He has completed his apprenticeship in engineering and is pursuing a successful career. The self-doubt, anger, and confusion that once held him back have been replaced by confidence, purpose, and a sense of belonging. Tayn continues to stay connected with Youth Encounter, attending camps, volunteering, and mentoring others.
Reflecting on his journey, Tayn says, “Without Youth Encounter, I would still feel quite lost in life, not able to live to my potential. They’ve helped me understand that I’m good enough and can face my challenges.”
Tayn’ story is a powerful reminder of what can happen when someone is given the right tools, community, and guidance. Youth Encounter didn’t just provide Tayn with a distraction—they gave him a family, a purpose, and a renewed sense of hope. And in turn, Tayn is using what he’s learned to inspire and support others, ensuring that the ripple effect of his transformation continues for years to come.
As his mother beautifully puts it, “Thank you so much to this wonderful team of people who support and encourage Tayn. We really appreciate all that you are doing.”
Youth Encounter has been journeying with Tayn for over 7 years now and is a testament to the power of community, mentoring, and the long-term life-changing impact of Youth Encounter’s programs. From a 13-year-old boy struggling with identity and purpose to a young man now living out his God-given potential, Tayn' story shows that no challenge is too great when someone believes in you.
Join us in helping more young people like Tayn discover their potential through Youth Encounter.
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