The door had opened months earlier at TeenStreet 2025: first contacts, many online meetings, long conversations. From 20 to 22 March the time had come – our first introductory training in Albania. Fifteen hours by car, yet the anticipation was greater than the tiredness. We knew this was more than a trip: it was the continuation of something God had already started.
Every new beginning comes with uncertainty. The location was far from what we were used to: a single small room in the middle of the city, just big enough for twelve participants. No outdoor space, no green area – only walls and eager faces.
“I think we can start a Youngstars club too.”
a participant in Albania
And the group was young: 13 to 14 years old on average. Running an intensive introductory course with a group like that, in a room like that – it required flexibility, creativity and a willingness to step outside our comfort zone.
That is exactly what we did. We reshaped the programme, adjusted the games and used every square metre. After all: if we could not demonstrate that a Youngstars course can happen anywhere – how could we expect them to believe they can start a club of their own with what they have?
Our willingness to adapt became the starting point of their shift in thinking. We taught them how to prepare and lead games – and watched their potential come alive, despite their young age and limited resources.
With each session, something shifted. They began to understand that youth group ministry is more than running activities: noticing children's needs, creating meaningful alternatives through play, understanding the environments children come from. Every lesson became personal and practical.
By the end, a simple but powerful thought was in the room – whether spoken with confidence or hesitation, the seed was planted. Now we wait in faith: not for the first step, but for the next step of Youngstars in Albania. Pray with us for these twelve young people.
