Student Post: CUFI SALT Student Advocacy Leadership Training Reflection
CUFI SALT Student Advocacy Leadership Training Reflection
By Sylah Mitchell, Senior
Hello Kings Family,
This school year has been filled with meaningful on-campus and off-campus opportunities for our high school students. One experience, however, stood out as especially impactful and life-changing.
In November 2025, nine VCCS students were nominated to participate in the Christians United for Israel Student Advocacy Leadership Training (CUFI - SALT). Through the generosity of CUFI partners, all flights, hotel accommodations, and meals were fully covered. On Friday, January 30, 2026, our group of nine students and chaperones traveled to San Antonio, Texas, to attend this powerful conference. CUFI, founded by John Hagee, exists to ensure that the next generation of Christian leaders stands strong with Israel and the Jewish people through education, biblical understanding, and advocacy.
From the moment we arrived, CUFI’s mission was clearly being fulfilled. Our first evening included fellowship, dinner, and teaching centered on Israel’s biblical foundations. We heard from Pastor John Hagee, Senior Director Randy Neel, and Yair Horn, a survivor of the October 7 Hamas attacks and subsequent captivity. Mr. Horn’s testimony was especially moving, as it powerfully illustrated God’s faithfulness, protection, and deliverance in the midst of unimaginable hardship.
The second day was filled with dynamic and engaging learning experiences. Students participated in breakout sessions tailored to their interests, including topics such as social media advocacy, leadership development, and effective communication. Each session challenged us to think critically, lead boldly, and represent biblical truth with wisdom and confidence.
Following a full day of learning, students enjoyed a time of fellowship and fun at Andretti Indoor Amusement Park. It was a joyful opportunity to relax, connect with students from across the nation, and simply enjoy being teenagers—laughing, building friendships, and making lasting memories.
The conference concluded on Sunday, February 1, 2026, as we returned home to Charlotte. We came back encouraged, equipped, and deeply impacted by the experience. CUFI - SALT strengthened our understanding of God’s heart for Israel and affirmed our call to stand for truth with knowledge, courage, and compassion.
As Scripture reminds us in Genesis 12:3, “I will bless those who bless you… and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” We are grateful for this opportunity and for the lasting impact it has had on the King’s Kingdom here at VCCS.
