John began a full-time career in Christian youth ministry in 1972, and all but 9 years since have been spent with Youth For Christ – as National Director of YFC Northern Ireland, then Area Director for Europe, The Middle-East & North Africa, before founding FFTN in 2014. He came to Christ at age 14 and was discipled in his home Open Brethren church in Belfast and a similar one in London. Married to Maisie, a music teacher, and with two daughters, Sarah and Emma. Lives 17 miles south of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Ulster and a genuine, bona fide certificate as “The World’s Greatest Dad” – by far the most important award on his wall. Saved and kept by grace alone.

Following studying Business at Ulster University, involved in running a retail/distribution business for 15 years. Over the last 15 years involved in several projects, including being part of the leadership team for YFC Eastern Europe. Co–founder of a project in Moldova which enables teenage girls to further their education and attain skills to help them get employment. Until recently part of the Management Team that organises New Horizon, a week–long Christian conference in N Ireland in August that attracts around 4000 attendees. Lives in N Ireland but enjoys travelling especially to YFC projects. Enjoys sailing & being near water.

Rachel has an Honours degree in Modern History and Film Studies from Queen’s University Belfast and previously worked for the Northern Ireland Civil Service. She takes care of all the book–keeping and the general office admin and keeps John and Paul on track. Loves researching ancestry and family history.

Prior to joining FFTN Simon was involved in business, running two companies and volunteering with a local YFC drop-in centre in Co.Down. Before pioneering YFC in Ireland Simon served as a missionary in Czech Republic for 4 years based at YFC’s Immanuel Conference Centre, where he was involved in birthing a national ministry among orphans. More recently Simon has been pastoring a church in Ireland whilst studying an MA in Theology. Simon believes that these three streams of experience converge in Foundation For The Nations.