My name is Ryan Duart and I live in Seminole, Florida. I have lived in Florida all of my life. I have 4 siblings: An older brother who is 33, an older sister who is 31, an older sister with special needs who is 20, and a little brother who is 12. I’m 18 years old and a freshman in college. I’m currently working for the Tradewinds Resort on St. Pete Beach in a retail shop. If I’m not there you can usually find me in class at St. Petersburg College, or on the beach. All of my life with the exception of 4 years I have gone to a christian school, and having the constant encouragement of the people involved with Keswick Christian School has had a huge positive influence in my life.
My hobbies include skimboarding, playing soccer and of course watching Netflix. When I’m at the beach I always feel God’s presence. A few years ago the beach was just a place to have fun with my friends, but lately I’ve been going there to find some peace and alone time with God.
One of the people who have had the biggest influence in my walk with God would be my youth pastor, Andrew Larsen. He may be a 34 year old with 4 kids (he’s made it very clear he won’t be having any more), but he’s just as close to me, if not closer than a lot of my friends from high school. My Bible teacher from high school Blake Engelhardt also has influenced me. He is a person that is truly on fire for the Lord, and anyone can see the passion God has put in his heart for missions. He has been on countless mission trips, and many of them have been to dangerous places near ISIS headquarters, or in Northern Africa. I aspire to be like these two people in my life: A family man who has a positive influence on everyone he is around, and someone who everyone can see their heart for missions.
I am extremely excited about having the privilege to go on the World Race! Some people may even be annoyed by how much I talk about it, but I know that this is exactly where God wants me. I’m really looking forward to my team’s launch in 2017!
