Youth On the Winning Side is a ministry that the Lord, Jesus Christ birthed in the members of the gospel singing group, Nu Image, in 1991. The members were asking the Lord to show them what they could do that would make an impact in the community, that would be Kingdom-building, and that no one else in the city was doing. The members felt led to do a week-long church music workshop for youth and young people ages 3 to 25. They felt a need to have a wide age span because the extremes of the age groups were usually not included for summer activities, especially the 20 to 25 years old which is a difficult time: too old to be a youth and too young to know how to handle adulthood. As the Lord gave revelation, the members decided to have a guest clinician and also to include youth and young people with leadership skills to serve as mentors to the participants. Each night of rehearsals would not only include music, but special features that were built around topics of need such as peer pressure, abstinence, etc. As the event evolved, the numbers grew to over 1500 participants with 4,000 – plus people in the audience. The event went from having rehearsals at different churches nightly, to rehearsals being held in 1 location and the concert being held in a large city auditorium
Although gospel music is the “hook” for YOTWS, religious classical music is taught to and performed by the YOTWS chorale. These music readers continue to show excellence and continue to study for the approval of the Lord. Additionally, a group of young people who have been participants in YOTWS for many years organized a group called Nu Flame. This group was founded for the purpose of continuing Nu Image’s vision. And this talented and anointed group of young people have done just that! The Lord has given increase to this ministry. Preachers, ministers of music, songwriters, evangelists, and just plain solid Christian citizens are products of YOTWS. These participants are planted throughout the world effecting positive change in the world. Many have received scholarships from Nu Image with the help of churches and businesses in the community. Over 1500 bibles have been distributed to participants. Many youth and young people have stood at the altar to give their lives to the Lord. Intense study manuals have been distributed to young ministers who participate. And of course, the music that comes from the mouth of babes is heavenly! Participants travel from far and near to participate. YOTWS has had participants from almost every state. Churches even send their entire youth departments. In the years of existence of YOTWS, Nu Image has not become weary in well doing.
