Back to the Tropical Heat

Back in Vanuatu

I've now been back in Vanuatu for a little over a month, and what a journey this short time has already been. The past weeks have been an emotional one, with both challenging days and moments of deep gratitude.

It felt so good to return here—to the tropical warmth, to my friends and colleagues. I had almost forgotten how much I enjoy life here. This time the jet lag was surprisingly tough, and it took longer than usual to get back into a good daily rhythm. But after a few weeks, everyday life is thankfully starting to fall into place again.

A warm welcome – and a birthday on the beach

The first weeks back felt a little surreal. I was almost living on a cloud. We shared many good moments together, and I truly enjoyed being back in the work and the community here. I also got to celebrate my birthday—26 years! When you live on a tropical island in the Pacific, there's hardly a better way to celebrate than with a birthday party on the beach.

Even though I had dreamed of sunshine and warm weather for my beach birthday, we were reminded of the power of nature. A cyclone passed through the area, and for a while there was a real chance it could hit us. Thankfully it changed direction, but we still experienced thunder, heavy rain, and strong winds.

Still, it didn't stop us! We lit a fire on the beach and gathered under a small bamboo shelter swaying gently in the wind while grilling chicken and sharing birthday cake. Even though the rain and wind blew sideways, the warm tropical air made it a very different experience from the cold Norwegian weather. The laughter, conversations, and sense of community made the day memorable all the same.

A little extra fun

Something completely unexpected that has happened since I returned is that I've gone viral here in Vanuatu! I posted a few videos from our work at the YWAM base, and they've received over 30,000 and 60,000 views—which is quite a lot in a country with a population of just over 300,000.

Now when I go to the market or stop by the supermarket, the lady at the checkout giggles because she recognizes me, and people often call out, "Hey, the lady from Teouma Valley!" I've received so many fun and kind comments from people, and even the kids point and laugh when they recognize me. 

When God prepares us without us knowing

During the first weeks we also had uplifting times with God, where we prayed together as a team and talked about the year ahead. We all felt that God reminded us of different Bible stories and gave us pictures and thoughts that we shared with one another.

For me, I was especially reminded of the story of Job—about faithfulness in the middle of trials and holding on to God even when life becomes difficult. Little did I know at the time how relevant that reminder would soon become. 

When the message we share becomes reality 

When we visit schools and teach children and young people about their God-given value, about boundaries, and about having a voice, we also encounter the reality many people live in. Sometimes those realities come very close to us, and it creates a need for extra conversations, reflection, and care.

In the midst of this, we have also seen something that gives hope. It has been powerful to witness courageous choices—people seeking help, turning to family for support, and taking steps toward a safer path forward. In a culture where the pressure from others can be strong, and where going against expectations is not always easy, such decisions require great courage. 

Prayer points moving forward

Even though the road ahead is not always easy, it is encouraging to see how God is at work in the midst of the processes people are going through. We deeply appreciate your prayers—for wisdom, strength, and protection in our work, and for the people we walk alongside in everyday life.

I still believe that God can use even difficult seasons for good. When people discover their value and find the courage to make healthy choices, it can become a source of hope and inspiration for many others.

Thank you for standing with us in prayer and support. It means more than you know.