Vivas, Mirsa
Mirsa “Leo” Vivas is an international Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service.
The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world.
A lay member of Sendero de Luz Iglesia Evangelica Metodista Unida del Ecuador (Lighthouse Evangelical United Methodist Church of Ecuador) in El Carmen, Leo has served as a youth leader. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in communications.
Leo is interested in Global Mission Fellows because she is enthusiastic about serving others and making a positive difference in the world. “I believe this program would provide me with a unique opportunity to grow spiritually, develop my personal and professional skills, and gain valuable hands-on experience in the global mission field,” she said. “I see this as a chance to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in work that aligns with my values and aspirations.”
As a fellow, Leo hopes to learn about and engage with the diverse cultures and communities that exist around the world. “I am eager to understand how people from different backgrounds, belief systems and traditions come together to address pressing global challenges, foster collaboration, and promote justice, equality and peace,” she noted. “This experience would not only broaden my perspective but also help me build meaningful relationships with individuals from various walks of life.”
Leo aims to sharpen her leadership, communication and teamwork skills, enabling her to become a more effective and empathetic agent of change in her community and beyond. She is confident that Global Mission Fellows will prepare her for the future in critical ways. “It would deepen my understanding of complex global issues, teach me how to address them effectively, and provide me with the tools needed to navigate the interconnected world we live in today,” she explained. “The relationships and networks I build through this program would serve as an invaluable resource for my future work. Most importantly, I see this experience as an opportunity to reflect on my faith and personal calling, using my unique skills and passions to serve others in a meaningful and lasting way.”
Leo’s academic background in mass communications has built a solid foundation in understanding and navigating public interaction, which she is keen to apply in a practical and impactful context. “Through this experience,” she said, “I hope to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, contributing to initiatives that empower and uplift those in need.”
A passion for social justice and equal opportunity has deeply influenced Leo’s personal and professional development. “Over the years,” she noted, “I have cultivated essential social skills such as effective communication, teamwork and conflict resolution, all of which I believe are critical in building trust and fostering collaboration within diverse communities. As a fellow, I intend to use these skills to engage with local communities, actively listen to their voices, and collaboratively develop innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges they face.”
Beyond contributing to the community, Leo is also excited about the reciprocal nature of the Global Mission Fellows experience. “I look forward to learning from the wisdom, resilience and perspectives of local communities as well as from my fellow participants,” she said. “Sharing my own experiences and insights while gaining new ones will enrich my understanding of the world and enhance my capacity to drive positive change. I see this opportunity not only as a chance to serve but also as a journey of personal and professional growth. I hope to make a meaningful contribution to creating a more just and equitable world.”