My Journey with the Especially For Youth Program

@apaigeofinspiration

I kept on putting off my dreams for a later date, for when I was “ready”. What I didn’t realize was that I was already ready to share my message and I was the one holding myself back. Celebrate with me as I read my letter of acceptance! #takeoffthemaskofperfection #inspire #efy #especiallyforyouth #publicspeaking #publicspeaker #idaho #utah

♬ original sound – Paige

This May, I’ll be heading down to Utah for an incredible opportunity that feels like both a blessing and a dream come true—I’ve been asked to join the Especially For Youth (EFY) Program as one of their instructors. Over the course of a single summer, EFY inspires over 50,000 teens to grow in their faith, embrace their individuality, and become the best version of themselves. To now be a part of this mission is both humbling and exhilarating.

The journey to becoming an EFY instructor is no small feat. The selection process is rigorous, and for good reason. With over 2,000 applicants vying for this role, the program ensures that only the most passionate and qualified individuals are chosen to lead and inspire these teens. The process began with a two-hour interview with the heads of the organization, where I had the chance to share my vision, my experiences, and my heart for teaching. Afterward, there was a long period of waiting—five months to be exact—before I received the life-changing news that I had been selected as one of just eight instructors.

This opportunity is more than just a professional milestone for me; it’s a calling. For years, I’ve been dedicated to helping others embrace authenticity, prevent burnout, and discover the path that God has laid out for them. Now, I’ll have the chance to share this message with hundreds of teens across seven classes during my time at EFY.

My goal is to walk these teens through my 8-step program, a framework I’ve developed to help individuals uncover their authentic selves and live with purpose. These steps are designed to help them:

1. Let go of perfectionism.
2. Embrace their unique gifts and talents.
3. Set healthy boundaries to avoid burnout.
4. Build a strong foundation of faith.
5. Find joy in their journey, no matter where they are in life.
6. Step boldly into the life that God has in store for them.

With these goals in mind, my hope is to equip these teens with the tools they need to live authentically and confidently. I want them to leave my classes feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to tackle life as their true selves.

I believe that when we show up as the people God created us to be, we not only find happiness but also uncover our purpose. And when we’re living in alignment with that purpose, the ripple effects are profound—not just in our own lives but in the lives of those around us.

Being chosen as an EFY instructor is a responsibility I don’t take lightly. I’m honored to have the chance to pour into these young hearts and minds, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust EFY has placed in me. I can’t wait to meet the teens I’ll be working with, to hear their stories, and to walk alongside them as they discover the beauty of being exactly who they were meant to be.

Utah, here I come. Let’s make this summer one to remember.