The ‘35 Under 35 National Recognition Project’ identified 35 dynamic young leaders who are making an impact through Christian endeavours across Canada.

Surge 2007, a report on the project, was recently published by ChristianWeek – which co-sponsored the initiative along with Arrow Leadership, the Canadian Council of Christian Charities and the Bridgeway Foundation.

 Several of the finalists are from B.C.

Rebecca Bailey, North Vancouver. The Canadian director of the Pais Project, which aims to help teens connect local high school students to appropriate churches.

Katherine Bentham, Surrey. Founded Hope in Action, which helps sex-trade workers, impoverished families, and victims of HIV/AIDS

Jamie Woller, Vancouver. Manages a non-profit organization which is renewing Bulembu, an abandoned town in Swaziland.

Continue article >>

Joyce Rees, Vancouver. Established a Downtown Eastside ministry called Jacob’s Well, which helps disadvantaged people with projects, such as reclaiming vacant lots.

Andrew Renton, Victoria. Youth pastor at Lambrick Park Church – which he has attended since childhood.

David Ducklow, Vancouver. Despite severe disabilities, he works as a camp chaplain, and helps children with developmental problems at a Christian school.

Jennifer Lee, Vancouver. Executive director of Gather and Give, which supplies household items to people in economically challenging situations.

Loren Hagerty, Victoria. Executive director of the Sail and Life Training Society (SALTS), overseeing strategic development.

Simon Gau, Surrey. Founder of Youth Church, which has since spawned churches in East Vancouver and Cloverdale.

Jordan Bateman, Langley. Runs a marriage chaplaincy agency and a freelance journalism operation, while serving on Langley City Council.

David F. Dawes

January 2008