At the beginning of 2025 we made significant changes to the IMPACT Gap Year program with the aim of making it more accessible, more affordable, and more flexible. We wanted to see more young people from across NSW & ACT have the opportunity to participate in IMPACT and receive extra support and input as they transition into adulthood.

As we come towards the end of this year, I’m pleased to say that this change has been a success. Our participants this year have all come from our regions – the Hunter, the Central Coast, the ACT and the Riverina. They are all currently engaged in a variety of things – university study, full time work, apprenticeships and gap years, and they’re a variety of ages and life situations – from 18 to 24 years old, married, single, living at home, living alone, living in share houses and on-campus accommodation at uni. As we look back on the year and the changes we’ve made, one thing is certain: IMPACT is more accessible than ever before.

It’s a great joy to me, and to the wider BYM team to see so many regionally based young adults able to participate in this program, particularly those young adults who might not feel ready to move away from home, and those who might be one of only a handful (or less) of young adults in their church community. It’s my hope that we can continue to tailor the program to make it accessible to any young adults no matter where they’re from.

As we look towards 2026, I’m praying that God will once again bring together a diverse group of young adults who are excited to continue growing in their faith and their understanding of who God made them to be. If you know any young adults who are looking for ways to continue growing spiritually and personally, please do get in touch – we’d love to be a part of their journey!