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After a 16 hour bus ride…

After a 16 hour bus ride through the mountains I was feeling weak, car sick, and hungry. The fish sandwich and probiotic drink they gave us on the ride wasn’t doing my stomach any favours, but I could either eat that or nothing. Thailand is hot. I mean, I know they told us that going into this whole outreach thing, but it was actually really hot. I had my cute touristy hat on, and my sunnies but that couldn’t save me from the heat and humidity.

We pulled up to the bus stop, exited the bus, and grabbed our bags. We were told to wait at the station until the Pastor showed up with a van to pick us up. Where were we?  I was confident that I couldn’t point out even a general location of where I was on a map. Finally, we saw a small van and pickup truck pull up with what could only be a pastor stepping out of the driver door. He was clean cut, wearing an all black suit, and had a massive smile on his face. At this point I was over the whole car ride thing, but here we go anyway.  Another 10 hours later we pulled up to the orphanage.  To be honest, I wasn’t excited about this week.

I don’t love working with kids, and that wasn’t why I signed up for this particular DTS. I wanted to fight for justice against slavery in the world, and be a part of this big powerful message that is tangibly making a difference. I couldn’t understand how teaching english at a random orphanage in the middle of no where was going to do any of that.

 

The bus ride was literally terrible. It was hot, sweaty, and my classmates thought now of all times was a great opportunity to sing church camp songs… give me a break.  We pulled up to this dust bowl of an orphanage and I remember praying that this couple of weeks would fly by so we could get on with the main objective.  We were aiming to work with the women in the city who were working in the bars there. I could see the kids peaking through the windows of their bunker, and I felt my stomach turn.  Kids are smelly, messy, needy, and have no awareness of others around them. They are usually not grateful for anything done for them, and are kind of helpless when it comes to looking after themselves. While it sounds terrible, this was my reality at this time in my life.

 

As I stepped out of the van and glanced over to the kids dorms I saw him.

He was wearing a tiny camo shirt with an American flag on it, and blue cotton shorts. His eyes were big, and I could feel the pain they carried instantly. I knew in that moment that my entire life would never be the same.  I loved this little boy.  He couldn’t have been but 6 years old, and he knew not a word of english but it didn’t matter. I knew that I loved him, and that I would never for the rest of my entire life forget this little boy.  I could feel my eyes starting to swell up with tears and choked them back.  Maybe I was tired, hot, and hungry but that’s not why I was emotional. I couldn’t believe the love that overcame my soul for this one child, for no particular reason that I could identify. I remember saying to myself, that’s it. This kid is “my little man”, and he is the reason I am in Thailand.

The days we spent there often seem like a blur, how did it go so fast?

 

All of the sudden the sweat, dirty mattress, lack of a/c, rice three times a day, mystery meat, and bucket baths didn’t matter. When I met Ohnmar* his tiny rough hands shook mine, and he looked at me with big beautiful brown eyes. I noticed the fear, hurt, and nervousness in him and I could tell he had a story.  As I learned about him my heart broke.  Youngest of two brothers, and they both had watched their parents be brutally murdered in the Civil War in their home in Burma only a year before I was there.  They were driven out of the village, their home, their country, their life – with no parents, and no familiarity. I imagined the strength it would take to keep going at that point, and I realised that it was a type of strength that only comes from God.

 

After being a church goer my whole life, it wasn’t until this moment that I fully understood the love of God. It was easy now.  He just loves us, because he does. I understood that love because I wasn’t just receiving anymore… I was learning to give it.  Ohnmar* had done nothing to deserve my love, and I knew that he could never do anything to get rid of it.  It was unconditional, and it was free. For him, it was a gift and for me it was inevitable.

 

Ohnmar* was a bit of a rebel. With his cheeky grin, and small fits of anger I knew he had a long road ahead of him. I have hope for his life, and faith for him to thrive.  He is smart, and tenacious.  He is hurt, but he is strong.  He is small, but his heart is mighty.

 

As we left in that dirty beat up van we took to get there I looked out the back window and soaked in that moment. I knew that I would most likely never see him again. I will never know if he lives, or dies. If he goes to school, gets a job, gets married, or has children.  I’ll never know anything else about him, ever again.  With his photo in various places throughout my home I am reminded of him often. My Little Man that changed my heart, and taught me the meaning of love.

I am thankful my prayers are heard, and there is a hope I can believe in that doesn’t disappoint. At 20 years old, I was in no place to adopt a 6 year old Burmese Orphan Refugee that knew no english. For the weeks we were there all I could think about is how could I save him?  How can I get him out? How can I trust that leaving him here is even a viable option? What can I do?

The reality is that the answer, in a physical, tangible, and logical world was nothing. I had nothing to offer Ohnmar. The other reality is that my faith is in a God far bigger, stronger, and more promising than those realities.  His reality is filled with hope and a future that does not disappoint us. My prayer for Ohnmar is that he discovers hope and a life full of the same love he taught me.

 

if you’re keen for adventure, making a difference, and growing in your faith and character then we’d love to chat with you about doing a DTS!  It’s 22 weeks of life changing experiences that will build foundations for life. Enquire on the form below!
Lea Emerson

Lea Emerson joined us in 2011 for her Discipleship Training School from small town Paris, Texas.
Lea serves in many different areas but plays a main role in Marketing and Communications. She’s an excellent leader, teacher, story teller, and never short of an idea. She enjoys coffee, being with good company, and watching documentaries.

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Discipleship Training School - Townsville Campus

Our Discipleship Training School (DTS) gives you the opportunity to set aside five and a half months of your life to grow in your faith while serving the world around you. After 13 weeks of training and discipleship at our campus in Townsville, Australia, we take you on nine weeks of cross-cultural outreach. The DTS is a life-changing experience! 

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship 

Dates
  • 28 January - 28 June, 2024
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 13 October, 2024 - 14 March, 2025
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
  • 19 October, 2025 - 20 March 2026

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Discipleship Training School - Port Moresby Campus, Papua New Guinea

The DTS will run from our satellite campus in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The DTS will include a unique combination of discipleship, hands-on missions experience during both lectures and outreach, and the opportunity to make history as we establish a new campus in Port Moresby for generations to come.

Dates
  • 28 January - 28 June, 2024
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 26 January - 27 June, 2025
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025

 

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Apply Port Moresby

Introduction to Global Health & Development

Be immersed in a powerful combination of essential basic healthcare knowledge and community development training, with a focus on preventing illness, promoting holistic wellbeing, and empowering communities to develop their strengths.

Townsville Campus

To be announced

Port Moresby Campus
  • 14 July - 13 December, 2024
  • 13 July - 12 December, 2025
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HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site 

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

 

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Global Health & Development Gap Year

Our Global Health & Development Gap Year calls those whose heart beats to see communities thriving - physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. The Global Health & Development Gap Year is designed for both those that have experience in the health / community development industry, and for those who are starting out on their journey of healthcare in missions.

10802NAT - Certificate III in Discipleship

HLT31220 - Certificate III in Basic Health

HLTAID009 -  Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

HLTAID013 - Provide First Aid in remote or isolated site

HLTAID014 -  Provide Advanced First Aid

Dates

28 January - 13 December 2024

26 January - 12 December 2025

 

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Discipleship Bible School

During the course, you will have an opportunity to dig deep into the Bible, reading through all 66 books, gaining an overall perspective of God’s story. You will learn techniques for effective Bible study, and your speakers will help unlock the Bible’s fascinating content.

You will also be taught on topics. For example – you will look at Worldview and Origins as you study through Genesis, Exodus, and Job. Or you might look at Leadership and Worship as you study the life of David in 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Chronicles, and the Psalms. Each book is filled with insights to be discovered!

Dates

28 January - 28 June 2024

26 January - 27 June 2025

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Introduction to Radio & Media

Good communication is essential for strong relationships, healthy families, and communities! Our mission is to train and equip effective communicators to share good news and influence positive community growth.

CUA31020 Certificate III in Screen and Media

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All Courses

Our wide range of registered training courses are designed to help equip you for your field of passion.

We combine elements of informal, formal, and non-formal education to not only impart knowledge and skill, but also good character, important life skills, and the motivation to serve and invest into the lives of others.

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Join YWAM Staff

Our volunteer staff team is a diverse mix of different nationalities, ages, skills, giftings, and backgrounds. Their dedication and passion makes what we do possible and we are always looking to expand our team!

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Pathways with YWAM

We have a range of pathways within our training and ministry that allows you to specialise in your area and grow your skillsets. From Hospitality to Global Health you can upskill yourself while impacting those around you

 


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Resources
Joining us for a Discipleship Training School (DTS) or Gap Year with us soon? We have compiled a few resources to help prepare you for the amazing journey that’s ahead!

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For Parents
Do you have a child that is interested in a YWAM DTS or Gap Year? We have created some resources for you as your child navigates their YWAM experience. 
Canvas Online Training

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YWAM Precinct

Our recently developed YWAM Precinct located in Townsville’s CBD is the perfect hub for youth to find belonging and empowerment. A high, medium and low ropes course, brand new cafe, and multi-purpose warehouse space for seminars and other activities allows youth the opportunity to flourish through adventure based learning.

 

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Youth Ambassadors

As a Youth Ambassador you will have the opportunity to lead your peers and the wider community in helping to support the work of YWAM Medical Ships in Papua New Guinea.

 

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Work Experience

We offer the opportunity for students to complete their work experience at our city campus in Townsville. This unique opportunity gives students the ability to not only explore a future career pathway, but also get a taste of working with a local charity that is dedicated to serving the community.

 

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Schools & Youth Leaders

We know that really quality, committed youth workers, teachers and families are some of the best things young people can have in their formative years. Our hope is to make your job a little bit easier by offering adventure based learning, mentoring resources, leadership and training pathways, and service based learning opportunities for youth. 

 

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Transitional Accommodation

YWAM operates a home in Townsville for at-risk youth. YWAM receives tenant referrals from local collaborating youth support organizations.

 

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Vision & Approach

We have the hope to create a safe environment for the youth of Townsville to be, believing everyone has the right to hope for an abundant and healthy life physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. YWAM works in partnership and by invitation through Australia and Papua New Guinea.

 

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School Seminars

Our school seminar programs are designed to empower and motivate youth to live full and productive lives. Book these engaging and interactive seminars to strengthen your young people. 

 

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Youth Adventures

Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!

 

Pre-Register for Impact Summer 2024

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Impact Summer

Make an Impact during your Summer as you engage in epic adventure, learning and serving. 

Gain valuable skills through hands-on learning experiences at The Stable and the new YWAM Precinct, complete with hiropes and rock climbing wall.

 

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VET in Schools

Vocational education is one of the best ways for young people to explore their passions and get equipped. We offer several registered training programs for youth. In addition to all of the expected elements of a training program, our courses have an emphasis on building good character and the soft skills needed to be employable, while also giving students the chance to practice their skills within our organisation. 

 


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Adventure Based Learning
Adventure based learning programs are complete with a high, medium, and low ropes course, cafe, and multi-purpose youth space to run programs with a ‘learn by doing’ and ‘challenge by choice’ philosophy.
 

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Precinct Cafe

Help build healthy lives and communities in Australia and Papua New Guinea while dining at the YWAM Precinct Cafe

YWAM Precinct Cafe is a not-for-profit cafe located at 312 Walker Street in Townsville’s CBD.

 


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Dental Trailer

YWAM Medical Ships is now operating a Dental Trailer in collaboration with key stakeholders in Port Moresby with the purpose of providing dental services, training opportunities, and health education to schools in the National Capital District.

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Small Boat Patrol Outreaches

YWAM Medical Ships is collaborating with key stakeholders in the nation by utilising small boats to bring health and training services right to the doorstep of those who need it most. These patrols have a specific focus on empowering the youth of communities to live healthy lives to contribute to a healthy nation.

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Ship Outreaches

YWAM Medical Ships - Australia & PNG has been operating medical and training vessels in PNG since 2010.

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Our Footprint

Delivering basic services in Papua New Guinea (PNG) poses enormous challenges with 84 percent of the population living in remote, rural areas.

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Annual Reports

Read or download our annual reports. 

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Advocate

Join the YWAM Medical Ships team by becoming a Community Ambassador or Youth Ambassador in your local community.

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Mission Build
Mission Building is a volunteer program that gives you the opportunity to experience life at our campus all while supporting our work in Australia and PNG. Join us for two weeks to three months at a time that suits you!
 
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Youth Adventures
Youth Adventures is the ultimate service based learning opportunity for young people. We do all the work for your school or youth group so you can do the mission!
 

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Townsville City Campus - DTS, Volunteer, Donation
Support our community service projects and youth work in North Queensland by giving a donation to the YWAM Townsville City Campus. The campus also serves as the headquarters for the YWAM Training and Medical Ship, 99.9 Live FM, all training activities, youth work, and a home-base for all of our volunteer staff and students.
  • DTS Fees
  • Volunteer Fees
  • Tax-Deductible Donations
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Donate to support the work in Papua New Guinea
Join us in the vision of building healthy lives and communities for a healthy Papua New Guinea by giving a tax deductible donation that has the power to change lives!
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Ship Outreaches, Dental Trailer Outreaches, and more!

Joining us on outreach in Papua New Guinea soon? We are looking forward to having you! Your volunteer fees can be paid online on this page

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YWAM Medical Ships - Port Moresby Campus

Payments are in Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK) currency. Volunteer payments, donations, and projects in Port Moresby, PNG.

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Support Our Volunteers
All of our staff are full-time, self-funded volunteers, including our Managing Director! Each of our volunteers raise their own financial support outside of the organisation. This includes essential living expenses, outreach costs, and travel expenses.
Our staff include accountants, cooks, administrators, mariners, outreach leaders, medical personnel, trainers, housekeepers, program developers, communications officers, youth workers, and so many more! It truly does take a dedicated and diverse team to make what we do possibl

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Leave A Gift

Leaving a gift to YWAM in your will is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.

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Charity Gift Shop

Join us in the vision of supporting healthy villages in Papua New Guinea by giving a tax-deductible donation that has the power to change lives!