Over the past several months, the BLOOM team has had the privilege of standing in front of just over 320 young girls and young women, creating spaces where they could be inspired, encouraged, and encounter the love of Jesus. Each event has carried its own unique flavour, but together they tell one powerful story — of young women finding purpose, discovering their worth, and realising that their voices matter.
We began the year with our Young Adults BLOOM, welcoming over 70 youth leaders and their mentors for a day focused on leadership, faith, and influence. It was a time of equipping and refreshing young women who are already shaping the next generation through their example and service.
Soon after, we were presented with an unexpected but amazing opportunity to host a Mini BLOOM in the DRC! This small but powerful gathering reminded us that BLOOM is more than just an event — it’s a growing movement of hope that transcends borders.
September brought an unforgettable BLOOM Cape Town Teens event, where over 120 girls came together for a day filled with music, creativity, fun, and meaningful conversations. One of the highlights of this event was “BLOOM on the Sofa,” where a panel of young female leaders shared biblical insight on relevant and often challenging topics such as relationships, sex before marriage, identity, purpose, and self-worth. These honest and faith-filled conversations created a safe space for girls to ask questions and hear God’s truth about who they are and how they are called to live.
We then travelled to Citrusdal, where the team hosted another vibrant BLOOM weekend, welcoming over 100 girls for a time packed with engaging talks, creative workshops, and worship. The highlight of every BLOOM event remains the same — giving each girl the opportunity to respond to the Gospel. Many did just that, encountering God’s love and beginning a new journey of faith.
This year’s journey has been made possible through the dedication and passion of the BLOOM team, as well as countless volunteers, prayer partners, and supporters who stand behind the work of The Message Trust. Their faithfulness and generosity have allowed us to keep reaching young women across communities, reminding them that they are deeply loved by Jesus and called to bring positive change where they live.
And we’re not done yet! The team is already preparing for the next exciting chapter — BLOOM Uganda, where we will partner with local leaders to bring the same message of hope and identity to girls in East Africa. Alongside that, we are launching an online leadership discipleship and development program designed to nurture and equip emerging young female leaders within the BLOOM network.
As we look back on this incredible year, we are filled with gratitude and expectation. Through BLOOM, we desire for these young girls to receive the light that Jesus gives, for it is through this light that they are continually reminded that they can carry the light of Christ and be called to shine for His glory wherever He leads.
We’d like to say a Special thanks to Hebron Community Projects (HCP) and the Mouton Citrus Foundation for their investment in the young people of Citrusdal.
Written by Christina Tucker, Head of Creative Mission
