Growing up as a Christian in India, Sunil witnessed his parents struggle endlessly to provide for their family.  

Despite his parents’ tireless work as unskilled laborers, Sunil had no access to adequate education. In addition to generational poverty, Sunil’s family faced intense persecution and rejection from their village for choosing to follow Jesus.  

“Many times, I felt forced to accept a life marked by hunger, insufficiency, and a lack of basic needs — a life that mirrored the generational pain and poverty my parents endured,” said Sunil, 20. “Poverty and persecution for faith in Jesus went hand in hand. Life, I thought, will never be easy moving forward.”  

These struggles were not just personal; they were deeply rooted in a history of generational denial of opportunity and systemic oppression by privileged communities. Sunil often questioned whether there was any way out. Along the way, he and his family remained steadfast in their faith, trusting in God through every trial.  

Then, a turning point came. Sunil received a scholarship from International Christian Concern (ICC) through our Generational Transformation initiative.  

“I heard about a scholarship opportunity to pursue vocational training, and for the first time, I felt a flicker of hope,” he said. “I realized that maybe I didn’t have to settle for the same life my parents had. I could break this cycle.”  

Understanding the growing demand in the market, Sunil chose to train in mobile phone repair and servicing. He enrolled in the course in 2024.   

“Today, I’m proud to say I have completed my training,” Sunil said. “Thanks to this opportunity, I’ve already begun to earn an income and support myself and my family. More than that, I’ve gained confidence, skills, and a vision for a better future, not just for me, but for my family and the generations to come.”  

Sunil is one of 165 students who have received scholarships through the Generational Transformation program, enrolling in various vocational courses, including tailoring, electrical work, computer skills, and mobile repair. 

Like Sunil, some students have already completed their training and are now reaping the benefits, while others are still in progress and are expected to complete their courses in the next two years.  

“Thank you, ICC, for granting me this scholarship,” Sunil said. “I believe this is just the beginning of what the Lord is going to do.” 

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