Cherish exists to transform, empower and create movements of young women

Vision

Cherish exists to transform young African women as they discover God’s love for them.
Transformation occurs as young women discover there is hope for them, whatever decisions they have made in the past. As they experience the love and forgiveness of God, a foundation is laid that equips young women to form healthy relationships and to live with integrity. The Cherish Study is the primary program for realizing this transformation.

Cherish exists to empower young women to live free of HIV/AIDS and to embrace their God given destiny.
A Biblical approach to sexuality and relationships is taught and modeled through the Cherish Study. The goal is that in finding a true sense of value, young women will make choices that keep them free from either teenage pregnancy or HIV/AIDS. For those who have experienced pregnancy, hope for true restoration is given.

Cherish exists to create movements of young women who are secure in their identity, live with character and integrity, and who have a positive impact on those around them.
As young women experience the transformation of God’s love and value, they are encouraged to live with integrity, caring for those around them. They are equipped to share the skills and values they have learned with those in their community. Hope and transformation is shared through peer support, community action and leadership training programs, resulting in community transformation.

History

The Cherish vision was born from a growing understanding of the needs of young women in South Africa. Many young South Africans have a pipe dream for the future, yet lack the basic belief in their own worth to propel them into these dreams. The absence of mentoring relationships and Godly adult role models has left many young women confused about their identity and worth. False beliefs about the character and ways of God cause young people to fear God in a way that prevents relationship with Him.

Cherish began as a simple study and discussion group to equip and inspire young women to live pure lives. HIV/AIDS and teenage pregnancy are very real problems in the lives of many young women in South Africa. The Cherish study was developed as a means of bringing value and dignity to young women, assisting them to build healthy friendships and make positive life choices.

As scores of young women participated in the Cherish study in Southern Africa, it became clear that so much more than the eight session Cherish Study was needed. Out of relationships with the Cherish girls, the other Cherish programs have been developed, such as the Cherish Camps which provide a fun learning environment, and Life Skills Training which provide practical training for life.

Many involved with Cherish are also part of Youth with a Mission (YWAM)

For more information about YWAM please go to www.ywam.org.
If you’re interested specifically in YWAM Africa go to www.ywamafrica.org