From the beginning, 2010 alumni Jonathan and Justina Chuuma shared a dream of serving together in ministry, and they began their journey of transformation side by side. Although they are originally from Zambia, after completing their studies at African Christian College, they moved to be ministers in Zimbabwe at Beitbridge Church of Christ.
“It was a unique mission field from our original home, but we were equipped and ready to serve,” they recalled. Jonathan and Justina played a significant role in the growth of the church and led several major projects, with one of the most notable being helping the church complete a church building.
Not long after that, they moved to a rural congregation about 70 kilometres from Beitbridge. They encountered many orphans unable to access basic needs such as education, clothing, and sometimes even food. “Teaching these children about a God who cares, provides, and loves became difficult when we knew exactly what they were going through,” said Justina.
They realized someone had to step in and provide for these children, because they – like any other children – deserve to have their basic needs met.
“If the church is indeed the salt and light of the world, then it cannot stand by while children are suffering. That is what led to the formation of a Church of Christ NGO called the Zimbabwe Orphans Project,” Jonathan explained.
Starting an organization and getting it registered required many skills and thoughtful strategies. This is where the transformation they received at African Christian College proved invaluable. They drew on their training in project management, leadership, and fund development. “Coming up with the vision and mission was not a struggle, but getting support and raising funds became the biggest challenge,” they shared.
By God’s grace, the organisation has grown.
Today they move from one home to another identifying vulnerable children. Some are referred by churches or community leaders. Once in the project, these children are supported until they reach university. The project now covers the whole province of Matabeleland.
“It still requires a lot as we constantly monitor performance and behaviour of the beneficiaries, but God has been faithful as we receive volunteers to assist in these areas,” the Chuumas explained.
Today, hundreds of children are learning that King Jesus and the people that follow Him are loving, kind, and provide for their needs. Their needs are being met, they are receiving an education to set them up for a strong future.
Jonathan and Justina Chuuma are transformational leaders equipped by African Christian College. You can be a transformational leader, too.