Since she decided to follow Jesus in June 2025, 15-year-old Indii Mikaa’el has lost her education and the comfort of her home. She could also lose her life. 

Born into a Muslim family in Haroji Wado, near Ethiopia’s border with Sudan, Mikaa’el now lives under constant threats from her family and community. Although Christians worship freely and openly in Ethiopia, Christian converts from Islam in Muslim-majority areas often face violence and even death threats.

“When my family found out that I had decided to follow Jesus, everything turned against me; they became very hostile,” she recalled. “They said I had brought shame to the family; others told me I had betrayed my family and my community. They warned me that I would be killed if I did not go back to Islam.” 

The persecution soon became life-threatening. Armed men were reportedly placed near her home in Dambi Dollo, with plans to kill her. Because of threats, she was forced to leave school in September 2025 while still in fifth grade. 

“I live in fear every day,” Mikaa’el said. “I cannot sleep peacefully because of thinking about whether someone will attack me. Sometimes I feel trapped because there is nowhere safe for me to stay. I loved going to school, and I wanted to continue learning and have a better future. But the threats became serious, and I had to stop studying.” 

Despite her fear, Mikaa’el said she has refused to deny Jesus to please anybody, even if it means losing her family or her life.

“I know following Christ has brought suffering into my life, but I cannot turn back,” she said. “Jesus has given me hope even when I feel alone. I pray every day that God will protect me. I never thought my family would hate me because of my faith. Sometimes I cry and feel alone, especially after losing my family’s support. But I still believe God is with me even in this suffering.” 

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