This Sunday, 27th April, marks a special milestone as the UCKG HelpCentre participates in the London Marathon for the very first time. Representing us is Emmanuel Eghobamien, a dedicated member of the Victory Youth Group (VYG), who will be running to raise funds in support of the group’s ongoing initiatives.
Why is he running?
Emmanuel was raised in a Christian household where faith played a central role. From a young age, he attended the Universal Church (the UCKG HelpCentre) with his parents and believed in God. However, as he grew older, a desire to explore life beyond his upbringing began to pull him in a different direction. Influenced by peers, he started to drift—seeking acceptance, chasing relationships, experimenting with alcohol and drugs, and getting into trouble at school. A different version of himself began to emerge, one his parents did not recognise.
At university his lifestyle escalated. He partied heavily, taking drugs like MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine, and gradually losing focus on his studies. Although, he still believed in God, the pull of the worldly pleasures felt stronger, and he lived in conflict, torn between faith and indulgence.
After graduation, during a period of heavy drinking and drug use, Emmanuel reached breaking point. Physically unwell and spiritually empty, he returned to church. Where he heard a message of faith and life transformation. Faced with a choice to continue down a destructive path or surrender to God. Emmanuel chose the latter.
From that moment, his life began to change. He was baptised in water, committed to walking in faith, and started letting go of old habits. Even when he returned to university for his graduation, he found no joy in the club scene that once defined him.
Today, Emmanuel works as a Management Consultant in banking, is now married and is a father. His life is unrecognisable from what it once was—all stemming from one decision to follow God. Eight years on, he continues to see how that choice has shaped a life of peace, purpose, and blessing.
Why support Emmanuel’s cause?
The Victory Youth Group has had a powerful impact on Emmanuel’s life, which is why he has chosen to run in support of this meaningful cause. The VYG aims to inspire other young people to believe that they too can transform their lives. All funds raised will go toward supporting and expanding this work.
The VYG is for teens and young people aged between 14-25 years old. We offer a range of activities and practical advice to help young people to become successful adults. So, whether music, dance or arts is your thing it really doesn’t matter! We believe every young person can get involved and fit in regardless of their age, background, social upbringing etc.
We have a substantial number of youths who attend the VYG.
The VYG hosts:
Weekly ‘Real Talk’ meetings: Wednesdays at 6pm
Weekly ‘Sunday LIVE’ meetings: Sundays at 1:30pm
Emmanuel is running to make a difference and you can too, by making a donation to this great cause.
To learn more about the VYG and to stay updated, follow us on social media.
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