I did the faith changemakers course during my last year in university; it was a busy time for me, but my mom insisted that I find time for it. I am so grateful for the impact the course has had in my life, especially the two modules on integrity and forgiveness. Integrity has built me to be a trusted leader in Society of Anglican Students at university. The module on integrity helped me to be accountable and become role model for my fellow members and students. Forgiveness has enabled me to let go of bitterness. It is now easier not to keep grudges or resentment when someone hurts me. This gives me the space to create the life I want for myself and make a commitment to help others.

The faith change makers course was exciting. I was and am still delighted that I attended, especially the sessions of leadership, integrity, the Map of Meaning, forgiveness and meditation. I totally have a new perspective on leadership and my conclusion is that leadership is critical to personal and community development. I have since committed to training 500 faith leaders in the next three years. I will also create a foundation that sponsors girl education and raises leaders at early stage of life. I immediately started using aspects on forgiveness during my counselling sessions. Indeed, life is about making a difference.

The faith changemakers course came at a very opportune time for me. I had watched many youths caught and destroyed in the devastating web of drugs. My own family has a first-hand experience with drug abuse; the situation in the family compelled me to do something. It was during the course that it became clear I am called to sensitize our youth on the subject of drug abuse. The course helped me to set aside every excuse. I thought some things were not doable, but my eyes were opened to the possibility of a faith changemaking journey that involves working with juvenile prisons in South Africa. The course empowered me live my life anew, committed to making a positive impact in someone else's life.

As a third-year Public Health student at the Lake Malawi Anglican University (LAMAU), the course was very different from what I engage with daily. To say the least, it was an amazing eye opener! Three things stood out for me: first, I learnt that integrity is a matter of my word and who I am is my word. The idea that ‘without integrity, nothing works,’ has been life changing. Second, the course gave me agency to create the life I want. To know that this power is in my hands changed me. Third, the module on forgiveness has given me the toolbox to live a life free of resentment and unforgiveness. I am now energized to power ahead in life!

The faith changemakers' course transformed my personal life and ministry. The Map of Meaning helped me to rethink how I looked at certain facets of life and broadened my worldview. The meditation module has empowered me to fight difficulty battles in silence. It helped reinforce my Christian foundation, but also acts as medicine to my busy schedules. The forgiveness module awakened me and made me appreciate certain aspects of conflict resolution. Forgiveness gives access to discussing difficult and uncomfortable issues. I am profoundly transformed by what I have learnt.

I would like to focus on the Map of Meaning. It really helped me plan my life by making me present to what is meaningful in my life. This course or module enables participants to personalize the learnings to their individual faith changemaking journey. The Course Leaders hold the space for insightful conversations. The diversity of participants creates a great environment to explore what is meaningful in one’s life. Since taking the course I have taken the initiative to reach out to other people in my profession and network more. I feel that step by step, I am becoming a better and happier version of myself.

The faith changemakers course was, to me, a good Samaritan that came to my rescue, at the right time. I was in a state of despair, at a cross road and confused, not knowing which path to take. The course helped reaffirm and shape my vision. It gave me a sense of direction. It also made me resilient and optimistic. I wear this beautiful smile every day because the course made me come to the realization that my existence here on earth is not an accident. I have been chosen specially by God to make the lives of young women better. Now I am intentional about everything I do. I see growth in every aspect of my life and this has made me proud of the woman I am becoming.