Target Life was born out of a deep concern for the future of South Africa’s youth — and a conviction that young people are created with purpose.

​

In 1998, Abel Loedolff began developing a discipleship and personal development process after recognising a growing gap: despite the best efforts of parents, schools and churches, many young people were entering adulthood without clarity, resilience, or a deep understanding of their God-given design. Increasing societal pressure, fractured families, and shifting values only intensified this need.

​

Abel’s journey uniquely prepared him for this calling. After studying engineering in the 1980s, completing two years of military service, and teaching at a high school for seven years, he became deeply involved in leadership development, industrial psychology, and youth ministry. Every Friday evening, 60 teenagers gathered at his home — not for entertainment-driven youth culture, but for disciplined discipleship and intentional growth.

​

It was during these formative years that the Prothesis concept was developed — a structured, purpose-driven process designed to restore young people to God’s original intent for their lives. When this concept was eventually planted as a formal gap year program, everything aligned. The fruit was undeniable. What began in a local church environment grew into something far more significant.

​

In 2006, Abel officially planted Target Life, gathering a committed team to refine and expand the process. Since then, the program has continuously evolved, integrating deeper psychological insight and practical wisdom while remaining anchored in Biblical truth.

​

Today, Target Life stands as a dynamic and highly personalised discipleship and development journey. Our diverse team brings together experience, expertise, and a shared passion for seeing young people thrive. At the heart of everything we do is intentional mentorship, meaningful accountability, and unconditional love.

We are not a gap year anymore, but a discipleship and personal development year. We facilitate transformation.

 

Mission

 

To disciple and equip young adults to seek God, discover their purpose, build godly character, and live lives of faith, resilience, and lasting impact.

 

Our Core Values

​

• God First – Purpose begins with wholehearted pursuit of God.

• Word & Spirit – Grounded in Scripture, led by the Holy Spirit.

• Character Before Career – Integrity and perseverance matter more than success.

• Purpose-Driven Living – Clear calling brings direction and stewardship.

• Faith & Courage – We grow by stepping out in trust and obedience.

• Love & Honour – We cultivate humility, respect, accountability, and unconditional care.

• Growth Through Process – Transformation happens intentionally.

• Excellence with Significance – We aim for lives changed, not just programs completed.