April Sylvester
April Sylvester
SAMS Role: Missionary
Home Church: Church of the Resurrection, Wheaton, Illinois
Starting Year with SAMS: 2016
Calling to Ministry: April’s journey to the mission field was a series of stepping stones. God called her to longer and longer periods in sub-Saharan Africa, starting with 2 weeks in Tanzania and onto longer times in South Africa and then multiple times in Zambia. God called her to move to Zambia in 2016. Her love for Zambia has grown over the years. She was initially drawn by the beautiful smiles and open hearts, but she has stayed because she believes in the potential of the youth of Zambia. Though they face many challenges, she says yes to helping these strong and beautiful youth break free of the chains of mental illness that trick us into thinking we are alone and without hope.
Mission and Vision for Ministry: April works with The YANA Foundation (You Are Not Alone), a mental health support nonprofit based Ndola. Together they endeavor to see youth in Zambia move from a place of depression, anxiety, and mental illness to a place of wholeness, hope, and ultimately an experience of the Gospel.
Personal Points of Interest: April grew up in Atlanta, GA, and holds a BA in Cultural Anthropology from Wheaton College. April loves to exercise.
Favorite Bible Verse: Ephesians 3:17-19