VIDEO: Guiding a new generation
A Randgate couple has turned to technology to spread the Word of God during lockdown.
Brian and Azania Barends are passionate about bringing the Word of God to the youth, even during lockdown.
Working with young people has always been important to this couple from Randgate, and during the lockdown they launched the Youth Xperience Show, an online radio show.
“I have my own business where I do everything from graphic design to video production. When lockdown started I used my skills to make short videos for Facebook. A short while later, the radio station contacted me and asked if we would do a two-hour programme every Friday. We started in May and it has been a huge success,” he said.
Their show has different music and talk-show segments, and Azania has her own segment called It’s a girl thang with Azania.
“I have been through a lot. I have been bullied, raped and I got married at only 19 years old. I got divorced when I was 21, and now I want to share my story with young girls and hopefully change at least one life,” Azania said.
They record their interviews with guests at home during the week, and send them in to be played by the radio station. Their programme is also uploaded to YouTube to be watched later. Another important segment of their show is Regen with Brian and Azania. On their radio show, they talk about all topics – from general messages from the Bible to taboo topics like pornography and sex before marriage.
“When I was working as a youth pastor, some churches weren’t happy with the topics we discussed, but we try to be real with the youngsters and talk about issues they might be facing in their lives. The youth is hungry for spiritual guidance and motivation. People must understand that we are working with a new generation and they think differently. We use a lot of hip-hop music but we also have a worship session at the end of the programme,” Brian said.
Their goal is to change the way the youth sees their relationship with Jesus Christ. For them, it’s not about what church you go to or even when and where you decide to praise God, but it is about the relationship with Him.
Although their radio show is very successful, they are facing some challenges.
“A lot of young people do not have access to enough data to listen to our show for two hours. We pray that their parents and family members are so moved by the show that they will spread our message,” he added.
