SBC21

The seeds we plant today are Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders: Why NNYA Matters

In the ever evolving landscape of higher education and faith, the seeds we plant today shape the leaders of tomorrow. In 2016, Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st century saw a need and decided to address it. NNYA is one of four programs of SBC21 which arose from a need to engage African American and other ethnic young adults in meaningful ministry.Supporting the National Network of Young Adults (NNYA) is not just an investment in a program; it’s a commitment to nurturing the leaders who will guide our communities and churches into the future.

Take, for instance, the inspiring journey of Brianna Harris, a 2026 graduate in Biology from Howard University. At just 16 years old, Brianna was introduced to NNYA through its Leadership in Transformation (LIT) Conference. Here she was connected with peers navigating similar areas of faith and college life. This layed the groundwork for her eventual role as a campus leader and community organizer.

NNYA has served as a guiding light in Brianna’s faith and academic journey, connecting her with essential resources and opportunities for service. Through her involvement with the Howard Wesley Foundation, she was introduced to the powerful social justice work with Church and Society.

Brianna helped organize Thanksgiving dinners for college students who couldn’t return home for the holidays, a project made possible by NNYA’s network and influence. This initiative not only provided meals but also inspired other young adults to participate in service activities at their local United Methodist Church, creating a ripple effect of community engagement.

The impact of NNYA extends far beyond individual stories. It cultivates leaders who are faith-driven and service-oriented, equipped to tackle the challenges of our time. Brianna’s leadership was instrumental in organizing Howard University’s Alternative Spring Break trip to St. Louis is a testament to this. By partnering with local churches and organizations, NNYA partnered to take high school students on a college tour to Harris Stowe State University, Fisk University, Tennessee State University and Howard University showcasing the potential of higher education to students at LoveJoy High School in Brooklyn Illinois, reinforcing the importance of community connections and mentorship.

This is what collective faith looks like in action and is a shining example of what John Wesley calls Social Holiness.

Brianna describes faith as the driving force behind her aspirations: “The purpose that I have was instilled by God, so I must work within my divine capacity.” The seeds we plant and nurture are profound in young adults understanding of the role that faith plays in shaping one’s mission and responsibilities, especially during the formative college years.

Campus ministry and being apart of an expanding network like NNYA provides a vital safe space for students to navigate newfound freedoms and responsibilities, offering guidance and a sense of community.

Now pursuing her MD/PhD Brianna’s journey illustrates how early engagement with NNYA can catalyze sustained campus leadership, community partnerships, and faith-driven service. By supporting initiatives like NNYA, we are investing in the future, empowering young adults to explore their sense of calling and live it out within and beyond the church.

As a congregation, our support for NNYA is crucial. It’s an opportunity to plant seeds of faith and service that will bear fruit for generations to come. Together, we can strengthen the bonds of community and create a legacy of leadership that reflects our shared values. Let’s commit to nurturing these young leaders, ensuring that their voices are heard and their impact is felt far and wide. Supporting NNYA isn’t just about fostering individual growth; it’s about cultivating a vibrant future for all of us so that we can Love boldly, serve joyfully, lead courageously as we continue to make disciples of Jesus Christ.