Build a better future. That’s the dream we all share, whether we say it out loud or simply carry it deep in our hearts. We all strive for a future that will make us proud—one filled with purpose, direction, and meaningful relationships. Our future isn’t just about career goals or financial security. It’s about our homes, our families, our faith, our service to others, and the impact we leave behind. And that future is built not in one grand moment, but in the small decisions we make every single day.
Each morning offers a blank page—a fresh opportunity to write a better chapter. To become a little more than we were yesterday. At Cumorah Academy, we’ve built a place where that vision becomes a reality for young adults around the world. And in that spirit of growth and transformation, Kelly Shepherd, our Chief Learning Officer, shared a powerful message—one that resonates as both a heartfelt testimony and a challenge to all who want to build a better future.
From Doubts to Conviction: The Cumorah Journey
Since his first visit to Cumorah in 2022, Kelly has watched dozens of students walk onto campus with questions, uncertainty, and sometimes fear. But what he sees by the end of each semester is something remarkable.
“I’ve seen students coming with questions in mind and returning home with confidence,” he said. “They come with doubts and leave with conviction.”
Students from across more than ten countries converge at our campus in the heart of the Czech Republic, each bringing their own story. Some come looking for clarity about their path. Others want to grow their faith, build stronger habits, or gain practical skills for business and leadership. But no matter their background or goal, they are united by one common desire: to improve their lives and use their talents to make the world a better place.
And at Cumorah, they find what they’ve been looking for.
The transformation is visible: posture straightens, language becomes more purposeful, and eyes begin to reflect vision. They’re no longer wondering if they can succeed. They’re already making plans on how to succeed—and how to lift others along the way.
Build a Better Future by Investing in Yourself
Kelly’s message to both current and future students is simple but profound:
“Invest in your future. Take time to learn and grow. Create relationships that will last for a lifetime. Remember who you are and your purpose, and stay committed to that. Eventually, you’ll become the person you want to be.”
That’s the heartbeat of Cumorah Academy. We believe that growth isn’t an accident. It’s a choice. A deliberate investment of time, energy, and intention. Our programs are designed to stretch and strengthen students through real-world learning, leadership practice, and deep personal development.
Each day at Cumorah is more than a schedule—it’s a mindset. Classes in English, entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth are the starting point. But what happens between classes, in conversations, challenges, group work, and moments of reflection, is where lasting transformation occurs.
And while no day is ever perfect, each one is full of potential. Here, students are empowered to create consistent, successful habits that will serve them far beyond their time on campus. These habits become the invisible scaffolding for the future they will go on to build—personally, professionally, and spiritually.
“They all want to grow and change. Also, they create friendships that will last for their whole lives,” Kelly says.
Those lifelong friendships become a network of support, connection, and purpose—a community that continues to uplift and inspire, even long after the semester ends.
Mentors Help Students Build a Better Future
As we near the end of another semester, it’s natural to reflect. What did we learn? How have we changed? Who have we become?
Kelly emphasized that reflection is not only a way to look back, but a tool to look forward with clarity. As he put it:
“Everything we teach can be applied to every person, despite their circumstances.”
At Cumorah, we firmly believe your past doesn’t define you. Your choices do. And that’s what makes this community so powerful. Our students don’t just leave with knowledge. They leave with a vision. A purpose. A deeper understanding of who they are and what they’re meant to do.
But this transformation doesn’t happen in isolation. Mentors play a vital role in the Cumorah journey.
Kelly offered a stirring invitation to those considering joining our mentor program:
“For all of you considering being mentors, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The experience you have gained here will be critical to share with the young people.”
“The reason I love to come here is that we can add something to their future. And they will build a better future for all of us.”
Being a mentor at Cumorah is not just about giving advice. It’s about walking alongside students at a pivotal moment in their lives. It’s about sharing wisdom, offering perspective, and helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.
Whether you’re a business leader, a teacher, a parent, or someone with life experience to share, mentoring at Cumorah gives you the chance to be part of something bigger—something that leaves a legacy in the hearts of the next generation.
Write Your Chapter at Cumorah Academy
As one famous movie quote reminds us:
“Your future hasn’t been written yet.” – Back to the Future III
That’s not just a movie line. It’s a truth we hold dear at Cumorah Academy. Whether you’re a student yearning for clarity or a mentor hoping to give back, Cumorah is the place where your story finds its next chapter—a chapter full of direction, faith, and purpose.
Kelly ended his message with a rallying cry for everyone connected to this journey:
“You can do it!”
We echo that encouragement to you today: you can do it, grow, lead, and live with greater intention and impact. No matter where you are in life, you have the ability to build a better future—and it starts with the decision to take the next step.
So what will your next chapter look like?
Will it be one of growth, purpose, and leadership?
Will it be the chapter where you invest in your dreams, deepen your character, and connect with a global community of changemakers?
We invite you to write that chapter with us.
His message are for all:
Ready to Build a Better Future?
Join Cumorah Academy and become part of a vibrant, international community committed to growth, leadership, and lifelong transformation. Whether as a student or a mentor, your story belongs here.
Visit cumorahacademy.org to apply or learn more.
Your future is waiting. Start building it today.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Photos by Julieta Ramirez
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
