Can you tell us about yourself; where do you live? Where do you work/study?
My name is Fernanda Rivera and I live in Mexico City. I work as Youth Engagement Coordinator at the Global Opportunity Youth Network in Mexico City. In my current role, I coordinate a Youth Advisory Group that advocates for the economic inclusion of opportunity for youth in Mexico. I also volunteer as Chair of the International Children and Young People Advisory Group (ICYAG) with The Salvation Army
What does a typical day look like for you?
Most of my days are full of meetings, either catching up with the advisory group members I work with, or designing and planning workshops that we share in different spaces with young people on topics like decent work, labour rights, care work and entrepreneurship. If I am not in a meeting, I am usually out in the field facilitating these workshops.
What’s something you're currently working on that excites you?
There are so many exciting things, but if I had to choose one, it would be the work we are doing with the ICYAG right now, especially after our in-person forum in June 2025. I am so excited to see what God has in store for this beautiful group. Being part of and witnessing the work of this group has been an answered prayer for my younger self who longed for safe spaces in the Church where young people could speak their truth.
How are you connected with The Salvation Army?
I’m a soldier, I have been part of The Salvation Army since I was born and I currently attend the Corps #1 in Mexico City.
How do you participate in your corps?
I take part in youth activities, taking pictures during Sunday services and I try to support wherever I am needed.
Tea or coffee?
Coffee, always!
What steps do you take to strengthen your relationship with Jesus?
I spend time in prayer and reading the Bible, but I also try to seek God in the everyday, through conversations, in nature and in quiet moments. I also listen to a lot of worship music throughout the day. Sometimes I get caught up in the busyness of life and work, and worship music helps me reconnect.
What Bible verse is on your heart today? What does that mean to you?
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV: ‘But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.’ This verse reminds me that my limitations are not the end of the story. When I feel weak, it is an invitation to rely on God’s strength, and that is where his grace becomes real in my life.
How do you stay grounded when life feels overwhelming?
By pausing, resting and leaning on community – this reminds me that I don’t walk alone.
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl!
Who or what has been your greatest influence?
My mom and dad. Their love, faith and example have shaped who I am today.
How would you describe the heart of The Salvation Army in one word?
Compassion.
What do you believe God is calling The Salvation Army to focus on in this season?
I believe God is calling us to be present where people are. Not only inside our buildings, but out in the community, walking alongside those who are struggling, feeling excluded, searching for answers or in need of hope. That is where Jesus would be, and that is where we should be too.
Have you experienced any failures or setbacks that ended up being blessings in disguise?
Yes. There have been times when doors closed or plans did not work out the way I hoped, and in the moment it felt like failure. Looking back, those moments opened space for new opportunities and taught me to rely on God’s timing rather than my own.
How do you unwind or spend your free time?
I love spending time with friends, watching series and discovering new coffee shops around the city.
What do you hope to achieve in the next five years?
Honestly, my greatest hope is to be content. When I was younger, my mom often reminded me to ‘enjoy where you are while on the way to where you are going’ and that has always been one of my biggest challenges. I tend to focus on what comes next. While I look forward to things ahead, like starting my second degree in 2026, my prayer is that I can embrace each season fully and find peace in where God has me. For me, success is not about positions or achievements, but about living with peace, joy and gratitude for where God has taken me. I want to be content knowing that I have walked in his purpose, wherever that may lead.
