Balie Lester

Hi, my name is Balie, and I am 22 years old. I have been a full-time missionary for five years. At 17, I felt the Lord calling me to leave everything behind and become a missionary. After graduating high school in 2021, I moved to Mexico and spent three years working at an orphanage. Following my time in Mexico, I served in Ukraine and Poland at refugee centers, where I experienced firsthand the transformative power of God’s love in some of the most challenging circumstances.

Through my own story, the Lord has given me a passion for children, youth, and young adults of this generation. I long to see people made whole and healthy, knowing that God can use anyone. My heart is to see young people walk in freedom from mental illness and the lies of this world, and discover their true identity in Jesus. My studies in the Bible and my bachelor’s degree in behavioral health  have deepened my desire to see this generation healed, equipped, and set apart for God’s purposes.

I have now been on staff with YWAM South Dallas for over a year. My main role is meeting with high school and college students each week, discipling them, and helping lead youth group events. Many of our students come from single-parent households or difficult situations, and I am passionate about walking alongside them—teaching them to forgive, to heal, and to know they are made for more. My hope is to see a generation set free and on fire for Jesus, taking His love to the ends of the earth.