Jim and Sterling co-founded the NextGen Leaders Conference back in 2003. The idea for such an event emerged out of a need in Jim’s life as he was leading a great historic mission agency through significant culture change. That exposure to organizational change proved to be a key marker in his development as a leader. It then dawned on Jim that he was not alone in needing markers and wise friends older on the journey to provide guideposts. If he needed such wise ones perhaps many other younger leaders growing in capacity may need older brothers and sister, as well. Thus, the NextGen Leaders Conference was birthed.

Jim and Sterling have been married for over 40 years. They have 4 grown children, 3 sons-in-law and 5 grandkids! Jim hails from Pennsylvania and Sterling from South Carolina. They met in college in Virginia where both sensed God’s call to serve the Gospel and the nations.

Serving together, they each come with 13 years of church planting experience in Asia, 13 years of leadership in two mission organizations and 8 years ministering in formal theological education and equipping.

Jim and Sterling O’Neill have a deep passion for equipping younger leaders for their Kingdom assignments. Their journey in ministry has consistently centered around investing in the next generation, helping them prepare for impactful service in God’s mission. The NextGen Leaders Conference became a natural outgrowth of this calling, providing a platform for leadership development and mobilization.

As they engaged with leadership training in North America, they recognized a critical need to integrate leadership with mission, community, hospitality, spiritual formation, and an understanding of personal weakness—essential elements for holistic preparation in global Gospel service.

Sterling is also a certified Life Coach and shares insights through her blog at www.sterlingoneill.com.

Beyond ministry, Jim and Sterling enjoy reading, playing and watching tennis, connecting with people, and can often be found together in local coffee shops.

NextGenLeader.net conferences are designed to inspire missionally minded leaders to deepen their faith and see the world through God’s perspective. These events focus on personal growth, spiritual development, and equipping attendees to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. Join us to grow, connect, and lead with a God-centered vision.