Equipping the Next Generation in Kenya

Andrew and Stephanie serve with SIM USA in Kenya, where they founded OneLife Africa. This organization serves young people in urban slums and rural communities. They minister to them through educational scholarships, mentorship, and discipleship. 

“Education is our entry point, and once we get there, we disciple them,” Andrew said. 

Through scholarships, mentorship and life-skills training, OneLife Africa helps young people pursue their education, navigate life decisions, and grow into leaders who serve their communities. The team encourages youth to follow Jesus in every area of life. They equip them to use their gifts to serve others.  

“The first graduates have finished high school and finished university. They are working in a broad spectrum. Some have become lawyers, police officers, doctors, nurses, engineers, and they are affecting a huge area,” Andrew said.  

OneLife Africa works with local churches, families, schools, and public officials to reach these young people. As Andrew builds relationships with leaders throughout Kenya, the ministry expands. 

“Serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13

*Daniel is a Christian who works in the Kenyan government. He became curious after hearing Andrew talk about OneLife Africa at a government event. 

At first, there was no formal partnership. The two simply became friends. As they talked, Daniel asked questions about OneLife Africa. Andrew explained how the organization partners with local believers to identify young people for the program. 

That conversation began a wonderful ministry opportunity. Daniel invited Andrew to visit his village and meet the people who lived there. Andrew accepted, and Daniel personally took him to the community and introduced him to its residents. 

This community is among the few remaining least-reached people groups in Kenya, with a small but vibrant Christian presence. Inspired by the faith and commitment of local believers, Andrew sought to build relationships and partner with them in nurturing the faith, leadership, and potential of the next generation. 

He began by getting to know the children and their families. Through those relationships, Andrew connected them with OneLife Africa. He invited the children to attend one of the organization’s camps.  

The children went to camp and returned excited about what they had experienced. Their enthusiasm strengthened the relationship between OneLife Africa and the town. 

As he continued visiting the community, Andrew began to see a significant need. The believers had no permanent place to worship. They were meeting in a small classroom, even though land had already been donated for a church building. 

Although the congregation had land for a church, they lacked the resources to build. They eventually turned to Andrew and his team for help. OneLife Africa provided the support needed to construct the building, giving believers a permanent place to worship and strengthening the local Church. 

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 

Now, the Christians in this community have a dedicated place to worship and gather. However, the church building is just one part of a much larger story. Today, OneLife Africa continues to partner with this community. 

“We are walking alongside them as things come up … We can pray with them, and connect with them, and train the next generation of leaders,” Andrew said.  

That partnership means finding ways to encourage and equip people who are already serving their community. Rather than trying to do everything themselves, Andrew and his team want to invest in the area’s leaders and next generation.  

For OneLife Africa, the hope is not simply to meet the needs of today, but to invest in people who will strengthen and serve their communities for generations to come, bringing lasting transformation and sharing the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ. 

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 

God is doing something remarkable in Kenya. Global workers are partnering with the local Church to impact communities for generations to come.  

Andrew and Stephanie’s story is just one example of how SIM USA workers are serving God around the world. Through relationships, discipleship, and service, God is using ordinary people to make an eternal impact. 

Have you ever considered serving God cross-culturally? Whether you’re just beginning to explore global ministry or have been considering it for years, SIM USA can help you take the next step. Connect with a missions coach and attend a Connect event to learn more.  

“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15 

*Names have been changed for the privacy and safety of our workers, ministry partners and those we serve.   

Maggie Watts
Content Creator

I am a content creator with SIM USA. It is a joy to use writing and multimedia to glorify God and tell stories about how He is working around the world.