This September, we welcomed five new Cadets into Chazak Academy as Class 5 began their training!

Their journey actually began earlier this year, when they participated in our first Chazak Foundations program. After four months of remote and in-person training, all five returned this fall to begin the full Rescue training program.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Chazak Foundations was introduced this year as a prerequisite for entering Chazak Academy. The 4-month program covers biblical studies, cross-cultural work, personal safety, physical conditioning, and emergency response.

During the in-person portion, participants also completed their Wilderness First Responder training, preparing them to provide medical care in remote environments.

With Foundations behind them, Class 5 was ready to begin their first Rescue training segment.

Into the Wilderness

After several days of learning basic skills, participating in rigorous physical training, and participating in culture workshops, Class 5 headed into the wilderness for Segment 1.1.

Over the following weeks, Cadets put their skills into practice while learning to work together in difficult environments. The training challenged them physically and personally, with an emphasis on hearing from God, caring for their teammates, and learning to lead themselves well when things get difficult. It also introduced things like survival skills and began the process of learning to live well out of one’s backpack. 

Following the completion of Segment 1.1, the Cadets returned for debriefing and a few days of rest before heading to New York City, where they completed urban training.

Meet the Cadets

Get to know the five Cadets who make up Class 5 and hear their personal visions for entering a life of service.

Carter Wiebe

Moorefield, Ontario

“I deeply want to help and serve people who cannot help themselves and are in horrible situations. I feel called to be an answer to someone's prayer.”

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Rylee Stoltzfus

Manheim, Pennsylvania

“I have a personal vision to show His love through my actions by serving people in difficult places where others may not be able to go.”

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April Gehman

Lebanon, Pennsylvania

“My endeavor is to be a servant, by lifting up the fallen, returning dignity to the victim, caring for the wounded, and defending the weak.”

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Tanya Ulrich

Hillsboro, Texas

“I hope to be a vessel that brings true hope and light to people around the world!”

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Milan Miller

Wellman, Iowa

“My vision is to be a light in the worst places. I want to be in the worst places bringing healing, hope, and His protecting love.”

Next Stop: Uganda

Class 5 is currently in Uganda, East Africa, where they are completing Segment 1.2 with their first international training deployment.

This segment introduces Cadets to working in a cross-cultural environment and the challenges of living and serving in an unfamiliar country. It’s an excellent opportunity to begin applying what they've learned while gaining firsthand deployment experience working in a different cultural environment.

Please pray for the Cadets as they continue their training in Uganda. Pray for unity, wisdom, and a willingness to learn as they encounter new people, cultures, and challenges.

We look forward to sharing more from Class 5 in the coming months!

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