“Ba Zambia, iyaaay, ba Zambia, chipolopolo”— And so we chanted as we watched a football (soccer) match between Zambia and Kenya. I can’t express how excited I am to be in Africa. I was born here, and it just feels like home. Zambia was an all squad month, which means that our squad of 22 people lived and served together instead of dividing into teams.
In Zambia, we partnered with an organization called “MMM Zambia.” The organization’s mission is to “serve those who serve.” This was MMM’s first time hosting a world race team, and we were excited to form a partnership with this great organization. During our time with MMM, we hosted professional development classes for the surrounding community. Classes included Photography, IT, Teaching English, Music, Finance, Business Management, Hospitality, Leadership & Camp Counseling, Dance, and Video Editing.
Through these classes, our squad was able to share our skills, and form relationships with the students at MMM. The organization provides skills to students on different educational levels, some of whom never finished school or have never seen the inside of a classroom. Furthermore, we visited MMM’s various satellite campus in order to be more familiar with the work they are doing in Ndola.
As for me, Zambia was an emotionally, spiritually, and mentally taxing month for me. I began taking on my squad leading responsibilities as a burden rather than a gift. I began to see people as a chore rather than through the eyes of love. God has shown me my strengths and weaknesses through this role, and I thank you for your prayers throughout this year. I was telling one of our hosts about how I finally signed up for The World Race. He stood there amazed by God’s confirmation, and I was quickly reminded of how much I wanted to be here last year. Thanks you for your prayers which I know have revived me for this month in South Africa.
Photos by Gabi Rodriguez
MMM has several satellite campuses, where they help women gain sewing skills to better their future.
The photography class.
There’s always time to play games 🙂
Teaching in Zambia was a privilege, and Zambia is one my favorite places I have visited on the Race.
