Who are the Future Leaders, really? In order to help you get to know us beyond the basic information on the bio page, we’ll be doing this series of Q & A posts over the next several months. Hopefully these questions will help you get to know who the 2009 Future Leaders really are!

In this post, Katelyn Steaffens talks about Frontline Arlington, her travels around the world, and what it’s like to be part of the Future Leaders Program

Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
Not gonna do it. I hate those types of questions. Ok fine- Newport Beach, CA born and raised. One older sister who I respect more than almost anyone else , most loving and supportive parents, all together awesome family. Friends whom I consider sisters. Beach bum at heart who’s intrigued with the East Coast and all things International. Interested in cross cultural ministry and learning how beautifully complicated it is. Dating a Marine which always keeps things interesting. Trusting God on this journey and increasingly enjoying the path He’s taking me on.

Where did you go to school?
Biola University-a private Christian school in LA. I had such an amazing experience there and loved studying Inter Cultural Studies with an emphasis in the Middle East.

What are some of the things you do in your job?
I work on connecting people with small groups. Basically anyone within Frontline Arlington that signs up to be a part of a small group goes through my coordination process. So yes, that’s 50% of my job, the other 50% of the time requires maintaining our partnerships with Inner-city ministries in DC. I prepare and empower teams of 10 to go on weekend service trips into the city to be a part of God’s work there.

What is the best part about working in your area of ministry?
Being connected with the people of the city. Don’t get me wrong suburbia is great, but when I get a chance to make my way into DC Monday nights to do church, that’s the highlight of my week.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned in the Future Leaders Program so far?
Its about the people. Whether or not your work gets done it’s about conversations that transform lives.

What’s been the best experience you’ve had during the Future Leaders Program?
You could ask me that question every day and every day my answer would change because honestly there’s been too many.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m in introvert. But because I’m so social people think I’m lying when I tell them.

What is your favorite movie? TV show?
Titanic-makes me cry every time! And favorite TV show? Probably the Office.

What do you like to do for fun?
ZUMBA- the new Latin/hip hop dance workout that’s sweeping gyms across America. Its sick, if you haven’t tried it you should!

You’re one of several Future Leaders who have been all over the globe. What exciting places have you been?
Spent a semester in the Middle East-Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Israel and Palestine. Traveled throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

Where would you like to live if you could live anywhere?
Istanbul, Turkey.

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?
Um, continuing my understanding of the role the local church plays in developing fully devoted followers of Christ. As well as becoming aware of how my gifting/calling/passions/strengths play into furthering the Kingdom of God around the world. Oh yeah and surviving an actual winter- this concept of seasons is all new to me.

Thanks Katelyn!