Vogen grew up without a father in his house.
His mother worked and received government grants but was still unable to afford the basics of food and shelter for the family.
As Vogen was entering High School, his uncle, just released from prison, moved in and became his role model. He brought money in through drugs and taught Vogen how to survive on the streets. Vogen began running drugs for his uncle, smoking and fighting. His uncle was pleased he was becoming “tough”.
During this time, a longtime partner of the Khayamandi Foundation met Vogen on the streets and connected him with a mission team working on a Safe House. It was through his time with this team that Vogen was first introduced to Christ.
The partner continued to mentor Vogen and, with his mother’s permission, helped enroll him in the Hands & Heart Program at Hope HQ. This gave him the opportunity to learn carpentry skills.
Vogen not only learned carpentry, but he developed a relationship with Jesus. As he listened to the morning daily devotions, he felt like the leader was talking directly to him.
When Vogen heard the verse, John 15:7 “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” Vogen thought if God could say that directly to him, then he had to change.
“God put me in this place and He has grown me to the position of coaching the learners now,” Vogen stated. “I never had a vision before. But now my vision is to give back to the community. The Lord has put a passion in my heart to take young people from the street and give them the same opportunities I had.”
During his time at Hope HQ, Vogen’s salary was sponsored by the Khayamandi Foundation, allowing him to pour into the lives of others just as someone once poured into his. Now, he carries that calling with him into what’s next.
