Merja, also called “Maria”, is originally from Finland, she has been married to her British husband Richard for 15 years and they have two boys. She is part of the worship and youth work teams in their church and has worked with young people in Finland, Thailand and on the OM ship, the MV Doulos.  As a couple Merja and Richard set up a charity called Switched On (International) to empower the underprivileged through English language and IT skills.  The family lived in India over a period of three years.  More recently Merja taught English for migrants, youth offenders and unaccompanied asylum seekers.  She enjoys playing the piano, painting, roller-blading and tennis, and loves spending time with family and friends.  Her latest challenge is learning to play the saxophone.  Merja longs to see young people released from conforming to social pressures to be authentically themselves, by knowing how much God loves and values them.

Jonathan is on the leadership team of New Life Church, Banham and is responsible for overseeing the youth and children's work, along with his wife Steph.

Jonathan works as the Children's, Youth and Families Development Officer for the Diocese of Norwich.

Jonathan and Steph have had many years experience running youth groups and working on WEC, SU, and independent Christian camps

Steph attends New Life Church, Banham, where, in addition to running youth groups and overseeing youth and children's work, she is part of the leadership with husband Jonathan.  She is also involved in the worship team, playing her flute and leading worship. They have three grown up children. Steph has been involved in youth work for over 20 years and has a passion to see young people fulfil their potential and know their true identity in God.

David was formerly youth leader for DC3 in Diss and Harleston and spent nearly 20 years in Scouting in Norfolk, both leading young people and in supporting leaders.

David is married to Linda, who supports him tirelessly, and has three daughters – two of whom are also now involved in leading young people.

Ginni attends Burston Chapel where her husband, Sam is the Pastor. She works as a speech therapist, has two children and loves baking!

Amy Cossey is a member of Hope Church in Harleston, is married to Justin and has 4 children ranging from age 5 – 18 years. She has a vast experience of working with young people starting out with Greenwich Youth for Christ in South East London, then in Capel St Mary, Ipswich, working with the Churches there for 7 years and more recently with Hope Church in both Harleston and Diss in a variety of youth and children’s groups. Amy is mainly working in the Thetford area, heading up the Pulse youth café on a Tuesday and Energize at Fulmerston Road Church. She is also involved in leading More2life lunchtime club in Old Buckenham High school. Amy has a heart for vulnerable young people and is passionate about showing them the love of Jesus.