Top 10 is a regular column by Mary-Jane Konings where guests pick their favourites in entertainment, media and leisure activities.

Stephanie Thorpe is the "go hard or go home" youth worker at St Margaret's, Bishopdale. She grew up there and has been the youth worker for just over a year. She reckons St Margaret's has really started to take off with new initiatives through the week as well as the Sunday night program. Stephanie also runs an adventure program for at risk young people in the community - sandwiching anger management and self esteem courses between rock climbing and kayaking.

MJ: What drew you to youth work?

Steph: Everything I have done throughout my life and everything that I am points to youth work. I've had HEAPS of leadership opportunities and training, and my personality has quite a bit to do with it. I trained at Polytech and it all snowballed from there. I have a real passion for reaching young people, especially in my community. Every day is different and every young person is different. I love getting to know them, seeing their potential and then getting alongside to develop that potential. I'm big on goal-setting and challenges so it's awesome to be there when young people achieve!

MJ: What is your favourite way to chill out and relax?

Steph: Hanmer Springs is a great place to escape to - it's 90mins out of Chch and it's an awesome place with beautiful scenery, quiet atmosphere but best of all - hot pools!! If there is no time for that - my favourite place is the botanical gardens, a walk around the park and a sit down by the river. Aaaahhhhhhh!

MJ: Read any good books lately?

Steph: I really loved a book called 'The Atonement Child,' it's one of those emotional books with an awesome Christian message.

MJ: Are you listening to a favourite band?

Steph: My friend is in a band called 'ZEST' and they are FANTASTIC, they played at Parachute and Easter Camp this year and they recently recorded a CD. I like them coz they are all girls and their songs are really powerful with great messages about God and life. The girls are really genuine and amazingly talented.

MJ: Where is your fav place to eat?

Steph: Mum and Dad's place for some home-cookin' - nothing beats it. A great feed and lots of it! (Plus, it's free!).

MJ: Would you rather play sport or watch it on the telly?

Steph: Definitely PLAY it! I like my soccer although I don't get to play anymore because the women's league play on Sunday mornings (sniff). I'm a big fan of basketball. In summer it's all about Touch.

MJ: What's the best movie you've seen recently?

Steph: It's not that recent but SHREK all the way, nothing beats it! Best movie ever!!!! Enough said!

MJ: What about outdoor stuff? Do you have a favourite outside location?

Steph: My fav place would have to be camping at Totaranui beach in the Abel Tasman. I've got great memories of summer holidays with family and friends. It's a beautiful place with a great beach, crystal clear water, lush green bush and some brilliant walks.

MJ: Where do you feel closest to God?

Steph: Anywhere away from the city, where there is peace and quiet, I like beautiful places. I'd have to go with the botanical gardens or the beach or up in the hills.