Welcome To Grace Youth!

We are so glad you are interested in our Youth Group. Here’s some helpful information about us to help you understand who we are, and what we’re all about! 

What Are The Key Details?

WHAT? Grace Youth group is all about getting to know Jesus by gathering together, exploring the bible and playing games. 

WHO? All High school ages from Year 7 - 12.

WHEN? Every Friday during school term from 6:30pm - 8:30pm.

WHERE? 2-4 Toral Drive, Sippy Downs | Grace Christian Church Buderim.

First person view of someone standing on a beige tile floor, looking down at their black shoes and a brown doormat with black text that is partially visible. The doormat reads 'COME AS YOU ARE'.

Our Mission Statement

GATHER. together in community.

GROW. together as we study God’s word and encourage one another

GO. established in the gospel, equipped to live out its message, and encouraged to share Jesus with others.

Meet Our Leaders

Luke Warren, Youth Group Team Leader, A young man with dark hair, smiling, wearing a light gray patterned button-up shirt, standing outdoors in front of greenery and tree trunks.

Luke Warren - Team Leader

A bit about me! I live in Buderim with my wife Marianne. I was born in Brisbane before moving to the Sunny Coast in 2009. I discovered Jesus in 2019 while studying at USC - Kasper, a ministry apprentice, led me through the Gospel of Mark. Discovering Jesus through the bible changed my life - I became deeply involved in church life before getting married to Marianne in 2021. In 2022, we kicked off Grace Youth along with 4 other leaders, and have been running the group every term since. In 2024, I began a two-year ministry apprenticeship at Grace Church. Aside from digging deeply into God’s word, I love playing guitar, cooking, listening to podcasts, and spending time with family and friends.

Matt Bradley, Youth Group Leader, A smiling man outdoors in front of green trees, wearing a gray t-shirt and a navy jacket.

Matthew Bradley - Leader

Hi! I am Matt and live in Palmwoods with my wife Shaina and our two daughters. I grew up in Southern Sydney and by God's grace was raised in a Christian family. I studied and worked as a chartered accountant for 7 years, but have since moved into real estate with Shaina and also take a significant role in caring for our daughters at home. Some things I enjoy are playing chess, investing in the stock market, watching the Cronulla sharks and cheering on NSW in the state of origin. I was a youth leader in my home Sydney church for 7 years and began youth leading at Grace in 2024. I’m passionate about telling all people about Jesus and enjoy serving on Friday nights helping the younger generations grow in their love and commitment to Him.


Peter Dassah, Youth Group Leader, A smiling man with short curly hair and a mustache, wearing a light green patterned shirt, standing in an indoor corridor with beige walls and black-framed glass doors.

Peter Dassah -  Leader

Hi, I’m Peter, and I live in Buderim with my wife, Chioma. I was raised in a Christian home in Nigeria, where I developed a deep love for Christ, music, and teaching. Since moving to Australia in 2023, we’ve been part of Grace Christian Church Buderim, serving as youth leaders and coordinating Grace Youth Music. I’m passionate about worship, African drumming, mentoring, and using creative storytelling to share hope. More than anything, I love seeing young people come to know Jesus and grow into who God has created them to be.

Chioma Ojiako, Youth Group Leader, Portrait of a smiling woman with dark hair styled in twists, wearing a blue and white checkered shirt and star-shaped earrings, standing outdoors in front of green foliage.

Chioma Ojiako - Leader

Hello!!! My name is Chioma (meaning God is Good). I was born and raised in a wonderful Christian home, where I was taught to love God, and to love my neighbour. I live here on the Sunshine Coast with my amazing husband, Peter, and together, we serve God as part of Grace Youth leaders. I believe in building a Christ-centred community where every young person feels seen, heard, and valued. I love singing, playing the piano, and studying God’s Word. My greatest desire is to reflect the love of Jesus and inspire others to follow Him wholeheartedly.


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Marianne Warren, Youth Group Leader, A woman with black hair smiling in a room with white plantation shutters and a motivational poster on the wall.

Marianne Warren - Leader 

Hello, I’m Marianne! I was born and raised in the Philippines. At the age of 9, I received the gospel through my sister and turned to Jesus. Though I loved Him, my teenage years were a tug-of-war with the world. Hoping to change, I moved to Australia in 2016—but my heart remained divided. In a moment of brokenness, I cried, “God, discipline me,” and He did. By His grace, I surrendered fully. I found a deep and lasting peace from returning to the Lord Jesus, and eventually joined Grace Church Buderim where I met Luke. We got married in September 2021, and began serving God together. Since serving in youth ministry, I have rekindled my passion for making disciples and helping others grow in Jesus Christ.

Mikeelie Ball - Leader 

Hey! I’m Mikeelie. I grew up in sunny Yeppoon and came to know the Lord just over a year ago — it’s been a life-changing journey. Now, I’m passionate about sharing the good news of Jesus and walking alongside young people as they explore faith. I may be new to leading, but I’m all in. My heart desires to create a space where young people feel welcomed, encouraged, and excited to grow in their faith in Christ.


Mikeelie Ball, Youth Group Leader, A smiling woman with curly brown hair standing outdoors with a scenic landscape of trees and mountains in the background, during what appears to be late afternoon or early evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Night sky filled with stars, the Milky Way galaxy visible over a silhouette of trees and mountains.

  • Our night starts slow, with a 30 minute social catch up over a free meal. (please advise dietary requirements)

    During this time we get to hang out, play some games like Spikeball or Table Tennis, and also catch up and enjoy food together. 

    We officially kick off our night around 7pm. A leader will pray, share announcements, read a passage of the night from the bible, then move into the games of the night. 

    After 30-45 minutes of Games, we will transition to our small groups (boys go with male leaders, girls go with female leaders) where we will read the bible, have a discussion, then pray together.

  • Grace Youth Music is a program run by Peter and Chioma, which encourages kids who enjoy playing music to use and develop their gifts. GYM starts at 5:30pm on selected Fridays throughout the school term. Let us know if you’re interested and want to find out more!

  • Grace Youth is led by a team of 6 leaders, under the leadership of Grace Christian Church Buderim. 

    All leaders have completed and passed Safe Ministry Check training, a Working With Children application, referee check, interview, and hold a current blue card.

    On any given night, at least one leader with an up-to-date first-aid and CPR training will be present.

    Each leader has a personal faith in Jesus Christ, and are motivated to serve as a response to His gospel.