My goal in life in life is to attend a Bible college and become a youth pastor.

I have been a member of Heritage Community Church in Fruitland Park for five years. In February 2014, our church was given a new building free of cost. As a way to celebrate what God gave to us, I organized two MERGE Youth Rallies and invited children from other local youth groups to attend. I am planning another rally for Aug. 24 and expect 150 children.

I credit God for my success. He has blessed me with lots of talent, and I want to glorify Him in everything I do. I want to do His work and further His kingdom.

Homeschooling has been beneficial to me in just about every way. I credit my self-confidence, leadership skills, outgoing personality and work ethic to being home-schooled. Those things, combined with the loving family I’ve been blessed with, have made me who I am today. Given the opportunity, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Shooting guns is one of my favorite activities. I can hit the casing of a .22-caliber bullet from 25 yards away. I finished in second place in the senior division at the Florida 4-H state rifle competition held last March. I competed against 30 other shooters at the Hernando Sportsman’s Club in Brooksville. The gun I use in competitions is a Savage Mark II .22-caliber rifle.

In June, I competed at the 4-H Shooting Sports Invitational in Grand Island, Nebraska. The competition lasted several days, and I competed against the best 4-H shooters from around the country.

Being a member of 4-H has been very rewarding. I have tried new things that I never would have otherwise. I currently serve as treasurer of 4-H at the county level.

I am also passionate about photography. I have had my own photography business for several years and have done photo shoots with children, as well as for small parties and graduations. My camera is a Nikon D5000.

My favorite hobbies include include camping, bible study and volunteering for my church.

My advice for today’s youths who are struggling is to never give up. There will be better times ahead. Keep smiling.

LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP

God’s work: Zackery has served as a youth ministry leader at Heritage Community Church in Fruitland Park.
‘4’ the record: He has served in the roles of chaplain, vice president and president of his 4-H Club.