“A Holy Surrender – Set Apart for Jesus Christ,” is a call for this generation to live completely yielded to God—a life where every desire, decision, and direction is placed on the altar for God’s glory. The Apostle Paul invites us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This act of wholly surrender is not a one–time emotional moment but a consistent, decisive, and daily lifestyle of true and proper worship.
In a dying world that constantly pressures young people to conform, the Apostle Paul commands all believers to resist the patterns of this world. “A Holy Surrender” challenges youth to break free from secular expectations and step into the transforming power of the Holy Spirit through the renewing of their minds by His Word. As a promise, our NYI will discover God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will for their lives.
“A Holy Surrender” is more than a theme—it is God’s Holy Spirit calling young people to live fully devoted, fully transformed, and fully surrendered to the presence and purpose of God.
“A Holy Surrender – Set Apart for Jesus Christ,” is a call for this generation to live completely yielded to God—a life where every desire, decision, and direction is placed on the altar for God’s glory. The Apostle Paul invites us to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This act of wholly surrender is not a one–time emotional moment but a consistent, decisive, and daily lifestyle of true and proper worship.
In a dying world that constantly pressures young people to conform, the Apostle Paul commands all believers to resist the patterns of this world. “A Holy Surrender” challenges youth to break free from secular expectations and step into the transforming power of the Holy Spirit through the renewing of their minds by His Word. As a promise, our NYI will discover God’s good, pleasing, and perfect will for their lives.
“A Holy Surrender” is more than a theme—it is God’s Holy Spirit calling young people to live fully devoted, fully transformed, and fully surrendered to the presence and purpose of God.
1. When and where is APNYC26 being held?
APNYC26 will be held July 22–26, 2026, at the Center for Community Transformation (CCT) Tagaytay Retreat and Training Center in Tagaytay City, Philippines.
2. What time does the conference begin?
The conference officially begins on the evening of July 22, 2026, at 7pm. Delegates should plan their travel accordingly.
3. When does the conference end?
The conference concludes on July 26, 2026 at 12pm. Delegates should schedule departing flights after 12:00 PM
4. Who should I contact if I have questions?
Your Field Youth Coordinator is your primary point of contact for registration, travel, payments, and conference updates. Here are your Field Youth Coordinators information:
5. Do I need a visa to enter the Philippines?
Visa requirements vary by country. Please check with your local Philippine Embassy or Consulate well in advance of travel
6. What is eTravel Registration and do I need it?
Yes. All arriving passengers must complete eTravel Registration within 72 hours before arrival in the Philippines. Save a screenshot of your QR code for airport and immigration verification. Here is the Link: https://etravel.gov.ph/
7. How do I get from Manila Airport to the conference venue?
Official conference transportation will be provided from Manila Airport to the conference venue. Detailed pickup instructions will be released closer to the conference date.
8. How long is the trip from Manila Airport to Tagaytay?
Approximately 2–3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
9.What if my flight arrives before July 22 or departs after July 26?
You will be responsible for your own accommodations, meals, and transportation outside of official conference dates. Contact your Field Youth Coordinators with your itineraries.
10. Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for all delegates.
11. Do I need parental consent if I am under 18?
Yes. All delegates under 18 should complete the Parent/Guardian Consent Form and carry any required supporting documents.
The Philippines has strict immigration requirements for minors traveling internationally, particularly those traveling without a parent or legal guardian. To help ensure a smooth entry into the country, a Parent/Guardian Consent Form is attached and should be completed by all delegates under 18 years of age.
Delegates may be required to carry:
12. What if I am traveling with a youth leader instead of my parent?
You should carry proof of parental consent and any documents required by your airline, home country, or Philippine immigration authorities.
Delegates under 15 years of age traveling without a parent or legal guardian may be required to obtain a Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) from the Philippine Bureau of Immigration. This typically requires a notarized Affidavit of Consent, valid passport, return ticket, and applicable processing fees.
Delegates traveling with a church leader, youth sponsor, or other adult who is not their parent or legal guardian should carry proof of parental consent and any required supporting documents.
Please consult your local Philippine Embassy, Consulate, airline, or immigration authorities for the most current requirements. Delegates and parents are responsible for ensuring all travel documentation is completed prior to departure.
13. What is a WEG?
A Waiver of Exclusion Ground (WEG) may be required for some foreign minors under 15 years old traveling without a parent or legal guardian. Please consult your local Philippine Embassy for guidance.
14. Where will delegates stay?
Delegates will stay at the CCT Tagaytay Retreat and Training Center during the conference.
15. Will meals be provided?
Yes. Meals will be provided beginning with conference registration and according to the conference schedule. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and morning/afternoon snack breaks will be provided throughout the conference days.
16. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
We will do our best to accommodate dietary needs according to your registration. Please notify your Field Youth Coordinator as soon as possible.
17. Can I leave the conference venue during the event?
Delegates should remain on-site unless participating in an approved conference activity or receiving permission from delegation leaders and conference organizers.
18. What clothes should I bring?
Bring modest, comfortable clothing suitable for worship services, workshops, recreation, and evening activities. A formal outfit is required for The Cause Naz Gala, set for Saturday, July 25that 5pm.
19. Are conference theme colors required?
No. Theme colors are optional and intended only for delegates who wish to participate. Here are the theme colors per day, if you’re interested to join the theme –
20. Should I bring spending money?
Yes. Delegates should bring personal spending money for snacks, souvenirs, and incidental expenses. There is a snack shop provided by CCT that accepts cash payments.
21. What currency is used in the Philippines?
The Philippine Peso (PHP).
22. Should I bring a power adapter?
Yes. The Philippines uses 220V electricity at 60Hz. Some delegates may need plug adapters depending on their country of origin.
23. Will Wi-Fi be available?
Limited Wi-Fi may be available at the venue; however, availability and speed may vary.
24. Should I purchase a Philippine SIM card?
Yes. Purchasing a local SIM card at the airport is recommended for communication and internet access. We recommend purchasing the GlobalSIM card for better connectivity.
25. What is the GRAB App?
GRAB is the Philippines’ most popular transportation and food delivery app. We recommend downloading it before arrival.
26. What is the World Market Cultural Exchange?
This is a special event where delegates share small gifts, snacks, pins, or cultural items from their country with others across the Region.
27. Why are we bringing a small teddy bear?
Delegates are invited to donate a small teddy bear for a Nazarene Compassionate Ministries outreach project and care package initiative.
28. Will there be workshops and small groups?
Yes. Delegates will participate in worship services, workshops, leadership development sessions, prayer experiences, missions’ engagement opportunities, and cross-cultural fellowship activities.
Upon registration, you will select your preferred workshop.
29. Will there be free time?
The conference schedule includes designated fellowship and recreation times.
30. What if I become sick during the conference?
Please notify your delegation leader or conference staff immediately. Medical assistance will be arranged if necessary.
There is a designated clinic and nurse located in the venue to assist delegates.
31. Should I bring my own medications?
Yes. Bring enough medication for the entire trip and carry it in its original packaging.
32. What emergency number should I call in the Philippines?
For Immigration Emergencies Contact: Grace Tia – Whatsapp/Signal Ph: +639209602391
For Transportation/Natural Disaster Emergencies: Contact: Leody Echavez – Whatsapp/Signal +6309190780748
For Conference Emergencies Contact: Sharon Latu – Whatsapp/Signal +6797245454
33. What is expected of delegates spiritually?
Delegates are encouraged to participate fully in worship, prayer, Bible study, workshops, and community life throughout the conference.
34. Why is the conference called Holy Surrender?
Our theme calls young people to fully surrender their lives to Jesus Christ and respond to His call with obedience, holiness, and mission.
35. How can I prepare spiritually before arriving?
Pray regularly, spend time in Scripture, consider fasting, and ask God to prepare your heart for what He wants to do through APNYC26.
Rev. Kafoa Muaror is the Asia-Pacific Regional Director for the Church of the Nazarene. Before serving in various pastoral, district, field, and global leadership roles, Rev. Muaror practiced law, finance, and business management.
His ministry began as a lay pastor at the New Beginnings Church of the Nazarene in Suva, Fiji, where he served as senior pastor for six years. He was ordained in 2010 and elected as District Superintendent of the Fiji District in 2014. In 2019, he and Aggie became missionaries to Papua New Guinea, then served as the Field Strategy Coordinator for the Melanesia South Pacific Field. His passion for discipleship, missions, and leadership development has influenced his service at every level of ministry.
He is married to Akanisi “Aggie,” and they have six children.
Rev. Josefina Ano-os serves as the Senior Pastor of Solid Rock Church of the Nazarene in Mactan, Cebu, and is a college faculty member at Central Philippine Nazarene College. Known as a “spiritual mother” to many, she is a devoted disciple maker and a wise counselor. Although she is single, her life is enriched by numerous spiritual children and grandchildren. Recently, the Lord has instilled in her a passionate burden for church planting, further fueling her mission to expand the Kingdom.
Sharon Latu is an ordained minister of the Church of the Nazarene who has been serving as the Asia-Pacific Nazarene Youth Coordinator since February 2025, and she also serves as a Missionary to the Kingdom of Tonga with her husband, Rev. Daniel Latu.
Sharon is Samoan and was born and raised in California as the youngest child of a pastoral family.
Prior to her current assignment, she helped pastor New Life City Lautoka, Passion, New Beginnings Church, and house churches in Fiji. She currently serves as the Academic Dean and Registrar for the South Pacific Nazarene Theological College (SPNTC), based in Fiji but has campuses in Samoa, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and now Tonga.
Sharon earned a degree in Political Science from Point Loma Nazarene University in California, completed her master’s degree in Theological Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary in California, earned her Post-Graduate Certificate in Leadership Development through Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary in the Philippines and was ordained in Fiji District in November 2023.
Sharon’s passion areas of ministry are worship, youth & children ministry, and theological education. Her passions are fueled by her desire to see young people and children discover, live, and thrive in their calling.
Sharon is happily married to Daniel Latu, who is from Fiji and whom she met at NYI camp in Samoa, 2016.
God is igniting a fire in this generation to serve Him boldly.
But when that fire starts to fade, don’t drift—run back to God.
Repent genuinely.
Consecrate yourself daily.
Surrender fully.
That is our holy surrender.
Now is the time to love God with your whole heart and live fully for Christ.
Family, let’s get to work.
Rev. David Nam or DAV1D NAM (real name: Sungmin Nam) is a Christian Hip hop rapper, Pastor, and is a Worship Leader from South Korea.
He serves as the Senior Pastor NANO Church and is an artist under NMN Entertainment, using music and culture as platforms to share the Gospel.
Ordained in the Church of the Nazarene in 2023, Rev. David has been actively involved in youth ministry. He has faithfully served 11 years as a NYI officer, 4 of those as Korea NYI President. 
He has released multiple original songs and has spoken at churches, conferences, and chapels, including serving as a chapel speaker at Korea Nazarene University.
Through both ministry and music, he is passionate about leading the next generation to know Christ and live out their faith.
I’m truly looking forward to spending time with all of the Asia-Pacific NYI family.
I once attended gatherings like this as a young person with dreams in my heart, and our faithful God has fulfilled those dreams.
I can’t wait to share this amazing story with you all.
Let’s Go! We are NYI!
Sarmiento was born in Bogotá, Colombia. Dr. Gerald Johnson ordained him in 1989. Dr. Sarmiento and his wife, Margit, were among the first members of the Church of the Nazarene, and he became the denomination’s first pastor, in Colombia in 1976. Sarmiento also had pastorates in Ecuador and was instrumental in planting churches in Costa Rica, Colombia, and Guatemala. Dr. Sarmiento served as district superintendent of the Ecuador Sierra Norte District. He also served as Regional Education Coordinator in South America, the former MAC region (Mexico and Central America, now Mesoamerica), and the Caribbean Region. Sarmiento was the rector of the Bolivia Nazarene Seminary, the Cono Sur Nazarene Seminary in Argentina, and El Seminario Teológico Sudamericano in Quito, Ecuador, and taught at several seminaries on these regions. Before being Regional Director in South America, Dr. Sarmiento also served as Regional Director for MAC, based in Guatemala City. The Sarmientos served as missionaries in Bolivia, Ecuador, and the Caribbean Regional Office, beginning in 1986. Dr. Sarmiento also served as Regional Youth Coordinator for South America and the Caribbean Region, and as Jesus Film Coordinator for the Caribbean Region.
Dr. Sarmiento received a Bachelor of Arts degree from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 1980 and a Master of Divinity at Nazarene Theological Seminary in 1984. MidAmerica Nazarene University conferred a Doctor of Divinity degree upon him in 2001. He earned a Doctor of Education in leadership and professional practice at Trevecca Nazarene University in 2019.
He was a member of the International Board of Education for several terms, and served on the steering committee of the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene in Global English. For three quadrennia, he served on the Commission of the International Church. Sarmiento presided over the translating of the Manual into Spanish. He also served as a committee member considering Article of Faith IV, on the Scriptures. Sarmiento was the president of the Spanish Literature Committee for over 30 years.
Sarmiento was the associate editor of the ten volume Spanish edition of the Beacon Bible Commentary, and other Spanish-language ministerial texts. He served as editor of the Conquista Juvenil (Spanish youth periodical), El Sendero de la Verdad (adult Spanish Sunday School periodical), and the Spanish Preacher’s Magazine. He has also published numerous articles and book chapters, and authored several books: Visitas Con Lucas; Training of Altar Workers; Devotionals in Luke; To Be Like Him, Devotionals in Philippians; and The Perspective of the Eagle, Devotionals in the Gospel of John (4 vols.) Dr. Sarmiento’s teaching and preaching are widely known, and he is a sought-after speaker for pastor’s retreats and events throughout Latin America.
Christian and Margit have three children, Monica, Christina, and Steven, and five grandchildren, Elijah, Charly, Jonah, Gracyn, and Abigail.
I’m truly looking forward to spending time with all of the Asia-Pacific NYI family.
I once attended gatherings like this as a young person with dreams in my heart, and our faithful God has fulfilled those dreams.
I can’t wait to share this amazing story with you all.
Let’s Go! We are NYI!
Janary Suyat is from the Philippines. She comes from the Metro Manila District, where she served as a pastor from 2007 to 2014 and was ordained as an elder in the Church of the Nazarene in 2013. In the same year, she received her Master of Divinity from Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary. She served as the Asia-Pacific Regional Youth Coordinator from 2013 to 2025, where she also facilitated mobilization and cross-cultural training for young and emerging leaders across the region. Currently, she serves as the Global NYI Ministry Development Coordinator and East Asia Field Pioneer Ministry Coordinator. She is deeply committed to developing youth leaders, and her passions include discipleship, preaching, and teaching God’s Word.
Janary’s call to cross-cultural ministry began after participating in Global NYI’s 12:7 Serve in 2012. Along with 11 other young people from different regions, she served for six months in seven different areas across the Mesoamerica Region. During that time, her eyes were opened to the realities of people and cultures different from her own—many of whom had never even heard about Jesus. It was there that she sensed the Lord’s call to unreached people groups. She desires to invest her gifts and talents so that those who have never heard about Jesus may come to know and follow Him as well.
Since 2014, she has been living in Japan, where she has found opportunities to connect with and build relationships among Japanese youth, especially those who have never heard the gospel before. Your continued prayers and partnership enable her to serve in the many ways the Lord opens doors for building meaningful relationships with people from different backgrounds.
One of my favorite things in the world is to see young people stepping out in faith and surrendering all that they have to the Lord. Because no matter how little we have or even if we feel like what we have is not enough, the Lord multiplies it in his hands.
I have seen over and over again how the Lord has worked in the lives of the young people who respond to His invitation to join Him in His work in the world.
I can’t wait for you to experience it too! There is unspeakable joy in knowing Him deeper when you live a life of “yes, Lord! May your will be done in my life.”
David Gonzalez is an ordained minister of the Church of the Nazarene who has been serving as the Global NYI Director since March of 2019, and he also serves as co-pastor of the Hispanic Ministry at Lenexa Central Church of the Nazarene.
He was born and raised in Mexico, the middle child of a pastoral family.
Prior to his current assignment, he served as a missionary in the Mesoamerica and South America regions, serving in the following roles: NYI Regional Coordinator (Mesoamerica), Leadership Development Coordinator, and Field Strategy Coordinator for the North Andean Field in South America.
David earned a degree in Business Administration from the University of Veracruz in Mexico, completed the ordination course recognized by the Mexican Nazarene Theological Seminary, and later earned a master’s degree in Religious Sciences through the Seminario Nazareno de las Américas in Costa Rica.
During his time in ministry, David has consistently focused on developing and equipping young leaders in our church. He believes that being a missional church requires all of us—children, youth, and adults—working together.
David is married to Tabita Gonzalez, who is from Brazil and whom he met at an NYI event in South Africa. They and their two energetic and amazing boys, Lucas (13) and Jeremias (11), live in the Kansas City area.
“Greetings, Asia-Pacific NYI!
What a joy to know that very soon we will see one another at the Holy Surrender Conference. I am praying for you, convinced that God is already at work in your lives, preparing your hearts and providing the resources needed for you to participate in this experience with the NYI family across the Asia-Pacific region.
Come with high expectations and with a desire to grow alongside other young people who love and follow Jesus. But also come with humble hearts and a willingness to allow God to surprise you with plans that are far greater than our own.
See you soon!”
Our proposed outcome for this workshop is that by the end of this workshop, participants will understand the value of mentorship in all areas of life—learning how to build meaningful, Godly relationships with friends, family, church, and their community, and gaining practical tools to give and receive guidance that strengthens these connections.
Terence Lustaña is from the Philippines and serves as the East Asia Field Communications Coordinator for the Church of the Nazarene, based in Keelung, Taiwan, where he is part of the pioneering church planting team. He has been married for eight years and, together with his wife, Ingrid and their three children—Jubilee, Lukas, and Eliana—seeks to live out discipleship as a family. In his early years of ministry, Terence served in multiple NYI leadership roles, and later as the former Southeast Asia Youth Coordinator, mentoring and equipping young leaders across the field. A former professional badminton player, Terence now uses sport as a bridge to build relationships, connect with communities, and make disciples in everyday spaces. Terence loves sports, cooking, photography, street food, and all things related to Godzilla.
“Friends,
The world teaches you to become someone by holding tightly to everything you want. Jesus teaches you to become someone by trusting Him with everything you are. And when a generation truly lives surrendered, ordinary spaces become holy ground. Once upon a time, Jesus called 12 young people. They surrendered everything to Him and they went on to turn the world upside down.
Do not underestimate what God can do through your life when you surrender every area to Him. The world today needs a generation who is rooted in Christ. God has called you for such a time like this.
I look forward to experiencing God with you all through APNYC!
See you soon!”
The outcome for this workshop is that young people across the Asia Pacific region will develop a deeper understanding of their identity in Christ, leading to increased confidence in who they are as children of God, a stronger sense of purpose, and a commitment to live out their faith boldly in their daily lives and communities.
Mativa Lauina, serving in New Zealand District as Senior Pastor of the Ulua’i Ekalesia Nasareta Samoa NZ in Auckland. We have 4 children, Zion (15), Zurielle (13), Danny (6) & Sefo (3). Born in Samoa and grew up in the Nazarene Church. I have been the NYI President for NZ District for nearly 10 years. Grace Lauina, currently serving as ANZ Field Communications Coordinator and she is our Regional Conference Coordinator for the APNYC26. We love being a part of the NYI NZ. We have been running camps and retreats for young adults for many years now.
“Friend, you are worth it.
God doesn’t make mistakes, and so when he made you, in His image, with all his heart and love, he made you. He made you just the way you were meant to be. So be bold, be courageous in your faith because God’s got you.
Just like the theme of our conference, it is a time to come and surrender it all to the Holy one – because he wants to use YOU. Like Mordecai says to Esther in Esther 4:14 ‘And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?’
The Lord is calling you to such a time as this. A time to surrender so that we can be transformed by the love and grace of God. Then we can shout the victory! We can’t wait to fellowship with you at the Asia Pacific NYC: Holy Surrender.
Blessings!”
The proposed outcome for this Mental Health workshop is that by the end, young people will gain a deeper understanding of emotional, spiritual and mental health, learning how to navigate challenges, seek God’s guidance, and experience healing in their walk with Christ.
“Hello, NYI!
I’m Hunny and I can’t wait to show you how God uses the world of Psychology as a bridge to reach our hearts. We’re going to discover how He uses science to bring us healing and transformation. My brothers and sisters, God sees you and loves you. Let’s walk together toward a ‘renewed mind’ this coming NYC.
Can’t wait to see you all!”
The overall outcome of this workshop is that participants will understand how a surrendered life to Christ transforms identity, renews the mind, and provides practical and spiritual tools to overcome addiction, pain, and brokenness, leaving encouraged and equipped to take immediate next steps toward recovery and discipleship.
Marilyn Arua is a dedicated ministry leader with over a decade of experience in spiritual and humanitarian service. She is the eldest of four siblings and many more that her parents have fostered over the years. Her journey began with six years as a Local Youth President, followed by international mission work with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) in Norway, where she focused on Bible distribution, refugee support, and coastal missions.
After returning to Papua New Guinea, Marilyn continued her outreach in the Abau and Rigo Districts of the Central Province. She currently serves as the Field Youth Coordinator and Statistics Coordinator for the PNG Field Office.
An avid reader and writer, Marilyn finds inspiration in music, nature, and animals, especially her love for dogs. She currently resides in Kudjip, Jiwaka Province, while her husband, Kevin, resides in Port Moresby. Kevin chairs an interdenominational ministry that partners with her home church, Ulamagi Church of the Nazarene. Marilyn remains anchored by the promise of 1 John 4:4: “Greater is He in me, than he who is in the world.”
“To the vibrant youth across the Asia Pacific,
May this season be a transformative time of growth and spiritual sharpening. It is a shared prayer that this new generation of leaders will be fully equipped with the wisdom and knowledge of God our Father, standing firm as proper examples of His image in everything you do.
As you step into your roles, may you find the strength to surrender completely to the guidance and leading of the Holy Spirit. We hope this gathering brings a profound new meaning to your walk of faith—fostering a deeper, intentional relationship with God that overflows into your communities.
May your lives not only reflect His grace but also make Him known to everyone you reach. Be bold, be intentional, and lead with purpose.”
The proposed outcome for this workshop is that by the end of this workshop, young people will understand the importance of digital evangelism today and gain practical tools to share their faith effectively online.
Dr. Donghwan (Bill) Kwon has been on a mission journey since 2004, following God’s call to take the gospel where it is not yet known. From the Philippines to Myanmar and now across Southeast Asia, he has seen lives changed, churches planted, and young leaders rise up for God’s purposes.
With a Ph.D. in Communication, he spent 11 years teaching at Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary, equipping students from many nations to boldly and clearly share the message of Jesus.
Today, he serves as Field Strategy Coordinator for Southeast Asia, helping raise a new generation of leaders who are ready to live fully surrendered and take the gospel to new places. Together with his wife, Mill, and their four children, he continues to invest his life in God’s mission.
His passion is simple: to see this generation set apart for Jesus and sent out to change the world.
Dear APNYI Family,
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
When I look at you, I don’t just see young people gathered for a conference—I see a generation that God is calling. I see lives that will carry the gospel to places many of us have never been. I see stories that God is just beginning to write.
Many years ago, I was sitting where you are now—uncertain, wondering what God wanted to do with my life. I did not have everything figured out. But one simple decision changed everything: I said, “Lord, my life is Yours.”
That surrender led me on a journey I could never have planned—from classrooms to mission fields, from familiar places to nations I had never known. And through it all, I discovered this: God does not look for perfect people—He looks for willing hearts.
Maybe today you feel small. Maybe you feel unsure. But God is not asking you to have all the answers. He is simply asking for your yes.
Romans 12:1 reminds us to offer our lives fully to Him. That kind of surrender may feel costly—but it is also where true life begins. When you give your life to Jesus, He will use it in ways greater than you can imagine.
I am praying that during this time, you will hear His voice—not just in the crowd, but personally. And when He calls, I pray you will have the courage to say yes.
The gospel is still moving. And perhaps, through your life, it will reach places it has never gone before.
With prayer and hope,
Bill Kwon
By the end of this workshop, young people will learn creative ways to share their faith with their peers, gaining practical ideas and confidence to engage others meaningfully for Christ.
Girle Ciocon serves as the Field Youth Coordinator for the Philippines Micronesia Field, where she is passionate about inspiring and equipping young people to live dynamic, Christ-centered lives. Together with her husband, Pastor James Ciocon, she is committed to ministry and mission, with a special burden for reaching the next generation through creative and meaningful evangelism.
In March 2026, Girle embraced a new and joyful season of life as she became a mother. Alongside her ministry responsibilities, she continues to faithfully serve the Lord with a heart for mentorship, discipleship, and youth empowerment
Girle has a deep passion for campus ministry and strongly believes it is one of the most impactful avenues for evangelism among young people today. Her vision is to see students encounter Christ personally and become bold witnesses in their schools, communities, and beyond.
“To the APNYI family, never forget that there is no greater joy than serving the Lord wholeheartedly. A life surrendered to Christ is a life filled with purpose, peace, and eternal impact. In a world that constantly pulls us in different directions, God is calling us to live set apart—to shine brightly for Him in the way we speak, live, and love others.
To reach this generation, we must be willing to connect with them creatively and genuinely. God can use your talents, stories, friendships, and even simple acts of kindness to lead others to Him. Never underestimate what God can do through a young person who is willing to say yes.”
To equip and empower young people to build meaningful, Christ-centered mentoring relationships by intentionally investing in others—using NYI mentoring resources to guide, support, and disciple individuals in everyday interactions.
David Gonzalez is an ordained minister of the Church of the Nazarene who has been serving as the Global NYI Director since March of 2019, and he also serves as co-pastor of the Hispanic Ministry at Lenexa Central Church of the Nazarene.
He was born and raised in Mexico, the middle child of a pastoral family.
Prior to his current assignment, he served as a missionary in the Mesoamerica and South America regions, serving in the following roles: NYI Regional Coordinator (Mesoamerica), Leadership Development Coordinator, and Field Strategy Coordinator for the North Andean Field in South America.
David earned a degree in Business Administration from the University of Veracruz in Mexico, completed the ordination course recognized by the Mexican Nazarene Theological Seminary, and later earned a master’s degree in Religious Sciences through the Seminario Nazareno de las Américas in Costa Rica.
During his time in ministry, David has consistently focused on developing and equipping young leaders in our church. He believes that being a missional church requires all of us—children, youth, and adults—working together.
David is married to Tabita Gonzalez, who is from Brazil and whom he met at an NYI event in South Africa. They and their two energetic and amazing boys, Lucas (13) and Jeremias (11), live in the Kansas City area.
“Greetings, Asia-Pacific NYI!
What a joy to know that very soon we will see one another at the Holy Surrender Conference. I am praying for you, convinced that God is already at work in your lives, preparing your hearts and providing the resources needed for you to participate in this experience with the NYI family across the Asia-Pacific region.
Come with high expectations and with a desire to grow alongside other young people who love and follow Jesus. But also come with humble hearts and a willingness to allow God to surprise you with plans that are far greater than our own.
See you soon!”
The proposed outcome is that young people will understand worship as a lifestyle of surrender and obedience, grounded in Romans 12:1–2, leading them to live transformed lives that reflect God’s will in their thoughts, actions, and choices.
Pastors Ritchie and Bette Asuega co‑pastor Kingdom Rock, a multicultural church they planted in 2013, followed by Kingdom Church of Aurora in 2014. They have served in various ministry roles and continue to work full‑time careers, keeping their leadership grounded in the everyday realities of the people they pastor/shepherd. Their four adult children serve alongside them in ministry and are a tremendous blessing. Each of them contributes faithfully to the worship ministry, supporting and strengthening the heart of their church’s praise and worship culture.
At the center of their calling is praise and worship. Worship is where God met them, shaped them, and marked their lives. It remains their place of strength and renewal. They are passionate about leading people into authentic encounters with God — moments where hearts are softened, chains are broken, and lives are transformed. They love mentoring worship teams and cultivating a culture of reverence, freedom, and surrendered worship.
Pastors Ritchie and Bette are Ordained Elders in the Church of the Nazarene and graduates of Nazarene Bible College. Bette holds a B.A. in Christian Counseling. Ritchie holds a B.A. in Pastoral Ministries, a Master of Arts in Practical Theology, and a Master of Education in School Counseling, and is currently pursuing doctoral studies. Together, their ministry experience and cultural insight demonstrate a deep commitment to serving and equipping the communities they lead.
They enjoy spending time with family and friends, quiet personal time in prayer and worship, reading books on worship, leadership, and spiritual formation, exploring cultural anthropology, listening to preaching and leadership podcasts, hiking, camping, traveling, cooking, and cheering on their favorite sports teams.
“Greetings APNYI Family,
Warm greetings to you all in the mighty name of Jesus. My wife and I are truly looking forward to being with you at the Holy Surrender Conference this July. It’s a blessing to gather with so many young people from across the Asia Pacific region who are hungry for God and ready to grow.
We can’t wait to meet you, encourage you, and stand with you as you pursue God’s calling on your lives. Just know that your generation carries incredible potential. Don’t ever believe your story or your future is too small for God to use. When you give Him your whole heart, He can do powerful things through you.
Stay focused. Stay teachable. Stay close to Jesus. What He begins in moments like this can shape your future and impact everyone around you.
We’re praying that God meets you in a fresh way — strengthening you, speaking to you, and awakening something new in your spirit.
With love and expectation,
Ritchie & Bette Asuega”
This workshop calls young people will gain practical tools and spiritual insights to recognize, embrace, and thrive in the current season of their lives—learning how to maximize growth, overcome challenges, and step confidently into the purpose God has for them
Pastor Daniel Latu loves Jesus and has served the Church of the Nazarene for 13 years. He has a calling and passion for young people, the local chruch and education. In all the platforms he has served, Pastor Daniel’s ultimate goal is to lead people to an active and vibrant relationship with Jesus. Seeing their transformation is his greatest blessing. Pastor Daniel is an ordained elder of the church from Fiji who has served in the roles of district secretary and treasurer, field youth coordinator for the former Melanesia South Pacific Field, District Superintendent and today he is a missionary to Tonga
“What is God telling you to do?
AND what are you doing about it?
God said obedience is better than sacrifice. Tomorrow’s impact hinges on today’s obedience.
What’s your next move?”
The overall outcome of this workshop is that young people will learn practical tools and strategies for creating engaging digital content that shares the gospel, grounded in a biblical moral compass and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, enabling them to start or refine platforms that reflect Christ-centered values rather than merely following cultural trends..
Tumua Tupa’i serves as the Field Youth Coordinator for the South Pacific Field, faithfully investing in the lives of young people. For the past 10 years, God has called her to serve through NYI, where she has led with creativity, passion, love, and genuine care for the next generation.
With an extensive background in media management, content creation, production, and direction, Tumua is passionate about equipping young people to use their creativity for God’s glory. She especially enjoys training youth in social media content creation, helping them communicate faith and purpose in meaningful and impactful ways.
Her heart is to see young people fully devoted to Christ, boldly living out their faith, and using their gifts to influence this generation for God.
“Friends!
God is calling this generation to rise with bold faith and fully surrendered hearts.
When you surrender everything to God, He can use your life in powerful ways beyond what you can imagine.
This is your time to be set apart, to lead with purpose, and to influence the world for Jesus. Stay passionate, stay faithful, and never stop pursuing His presence.”