From Hesitant Teen to Christ-Centered Leader: Nate’s TeenPact Journey

Hesitant Beginnings and First Spark

When Nate Brezina first came to TeenPact at 14, he was nervous and unsure. “I didn’t want to engage with the program,” he recalls. Like many teens, he wasn’t sure what to expect and felt hesitant to put himself out there.

But even that first reluctant step began a journey that would profoundly shape his life.

A defining moment came during worship on the last evening of his first class, in an old chapel. Watching his peers worship wholeheartedly, Nate experienced a breakthrough: “This was the first time I truly understood what a relationship with Christ looked like.” That night, he began to see that young people could genuinely care about and have a relationship with their Creator.

Growth, Leadership, and Confidence

Returning to TeenPact for two more years, Nate grew not just in knowledge, but in confidence and spiritual maturity. “The people within the program have been examples for me to emulate, and as I was placed in leadership positions, I began to realize that for the first time I have influence as well.”

Serving as staff and later as an intern for the 2024 and 2025 teams, Nate’s confidence soared. “My confidence and stage presence dramatically grew through the program. I began to enjoy public speaking opportunities rather than resent them.”

TeenPact taught him that leadership isn’t about recognition—it’s about pointing others to Christ and helping them step into their own potential.

Even beyond TeenPact, these lessons guide him. “I have been allowed to serve in multiple leadership positions at Anderson University, and this has allowed me to continue pointing young people to live and enjoy a relationship with Christ.”

And the friendships he formed remain a source of encouragement and accountability. “These friends still encourage me in my relationship with Christ and are some of the strongest friendships I possess to this day.”

More Than Civics: Influence That Lasts

While TeenPact teaches government and civics, Nate emphasizes that is only the beginning. “The tip of the iceberg with TeenPact is the governmental aspect. You will find yourself leaving with genuine relationships, leadership skills, the opportunity and ability to speak publically, and many memories you won’t forget.”

Peer influence is powerful, and TeenPact equips students to be the right kind of influence. Nate explains:

“Young people are wanting to know what’s true, and want to feel equipped to be confident, but lack the knowledge and encouragement to do so. TeenPact both equips young people with the knowledge and the confidence to be culture influencers in a time where influence is critical in the lives of their peers.”

Reflecting on his journey, Nate notes, “The hardest step in any adventure is the first one. The weeks I spent at TeenPact were not only some of the most joyful times I’ve had in my 21 years, but my time at TeenPact has been the biggest investment I’ve made in my future by far.”

From a hesitant teen to a confident, Christ-centered leader, he has carried TeenPact’s lessons into every area of his life. “The positive environment that is both centered and surrounded by Christ is transformational,” he affirms. The skills, friendships, and faith he gained continue to shape how he leads, serves, and encourages others every day.

Join Us in Investing in Teens

TeenPact equips young people like Nate to step into leadership, confidence, and faith. Your support helps teens grow into Christ-centered leaders who can positively influence their peers and communities. Together, we can invest in the next generation of leaders—giving them the tools, mentorship, and encouragement to make a lasting difference.