Watch Leaving Amish Paradise

Leaving Amish Paradise is a documentary series from BBC Select that explores the lives of four young Amish people as they make the decision to leave the strict and isolated community they grew up in. The series follows each individual as they navigate the challenges of adjusting to life in the outside world. For some, this means learning how to operate a vehicle, using a cell phone, or dressing in "English" (non-Amish) clothing. For others, it means trying to figure out how to support themselves financially without the skills or education they would have received in the Amish community.

One of the young people featured in the series is Ada, a 21-year-old woman who left the Amish community after realizing she wanted more in life than just getting married and having children. Ada struggles to find a job and a place to live, but ultimately finds success as a hair stylist and is able to support herself.

Another person followed in the series is Matthias, a 25-year-old man who left the Amish community after falling in love with a non-Amish woman. Matthias struggles to adapt to modern technology and society, but eventually finds work as a carpenter.

The series also features Sabrina, a 22-year-old woman who left the Amish community after realizing she was gay. Sabrina faces discrimination and rejection from some members of her family and former community, but ultimately finds acceptance and love from her girlfriend and new friends.

The final individual highlighted in the series is Andrew, a 19-year-old man who left the Amish community after deciding he no longer believed in the strict religious teachings. Andrew struggles to find his place in the world and reconcile his past with his new beliefs, but ultimately finds peace and a sense of belonging in a new church community.

Throughout the series, the challenges and victories faced by each individual highlight the complexities and struggles of leaving behind a strict and insular community. The series also sheds light on the unique experiences of Amish youth, who are faced with the choice to leave or remain in a way of life that is vastly different from the modern world.

Overall, Leaving Amish Paradise is a poignant and thought-provoking series that offers an intimate look at the lives of those who choose to leave the Amish community behind. Through their stories, viewers gain a greater understanding of the challenges and rewards of forging a new path in life.