A 16-year-old from Eden Park, Alberton, is quietly making an international impact through a faith-driven initiative that guides and supports young people across Africa.

Evan Joseph, a youth advocate and the founder of Life of the Mind, launched the online Christian network in 2024 after recognising the growing influence of social media on today’s youth and the need for a positive, faith-centred alternative.

What began as a local response to a community need has since grown into an international platform connecting young people in South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, and Nigeria.

Despite being led from Evan’s home community of Eden Park, Life of the Mind operates entirely online, making its programmes accessible to participants regardless of location.

The initiative hosts structured online Bible study sessions, weekly prayer meetings, and one-on-one mentorship opportunities, creating a supportive environment where young people can engage with their faith in a meaningful way.

In addition to these sessions, Life of the Mind provides virtual leadership training for ministry leaders and equips young Christians with practical skills for service and outreach within their own communities.

The organisation has also developed a dedicated Bible study guide, which is used during sessions and can be accessed through the group’s website, allowing members to continue their learning independently.

Evan said their mission is to encourage faith, growth, and biblical thinking among young people.

“We wanted to create a space that not only nurtures spiritual grounding but also promotes critical thinking and personal development in a supportive environment,” he said.

The network currently includes leaders from Zambia, Namibia, and South Africa, with members participating from across five African countries.

Through digital platforms, young people can take part in discussions, receive mentorship, and build relationships with peers who share similar values, overcoming the limitations of distance and national borders.

Evan said that the idea for Life of the Mind was born out of a desire to support and guide his peers.

“Being based in Eden Park, I saw a need for young people to have access to meaningful guidance and positive role models. It’s incredible to see how something local has reached so many people beyond our borders,” he said.

As the initiative continues to grow, Evan hopes to expand its reach, develop additional learning resources, and involve more young leaders from different regions.

His long-term vision is to strengthen a continent-wide network of faith-driven youth who can support one another and make a positive impact in their communities.

For the Alberton community, Life of the Mind stands as a powerful example of how local youth can utilise digital platforms to create meaningful change with global impact, proving that age and geography are no barriers to leadership, innovation, and service.