One of the greatest joys of stepping into the role of CEO at World in Need has been getting to know our incredible Global Family across Africa and Asia.
Over recent weeks, I have spent time speaking with our Global Family leaders, hearing their stories and learning about the communities they serve. Again and again, I have been reminded that World in Need is not primarily about projects, buildings or programmes. It is about people. It is about God's people responding to God's heart.
Throughout Scripture, we see a God who cares deeply for the poor, the vulnerable, the orphan, the widow and the stranger. When Jesus announced His ministry, He proclaimed "good news to the poor" (Luke 4:18). Wherever He went, He was drawn towards those who were overlooked, marginalised and struggling. He fed the hungry, welcomed children, healed the sick and restored dignity to those society had forgotten.
As I've listened to the stories of our Global Family, I have seen those same priorities being lived out today.
I've also had the privilege of seeing the impact of child sponsorship up close.
Recently, I spoke with Ian from the Philippines, who was sponsored through World in Need from primary school through to University graduation. Speaking with Ian and his Mum, Ruby, and hearing his story brought something home to me in a powerful way. Child sponsorship is far more than helping a child attend school. It is an investment in a life. It is a tangible expression of God's love that can shape a person's future for years to come.
What struck me most was not simply Ian's educational success, but the confidence, character and hope he now carries into adulthood. Behind his story stands a faithful sponsor, John and Silvia, who chose to walk alongside him year after year. It was a beautiful reminder that when God's people respond with generosity, lives can be transformed.
In Goma, DR Congo, Hope School continues to serve children and families despite immense financial pressures. More than 17 students have earned their National Diplomas in recent years, while feeding programmes and women's tailoring centres are helping bring stability and opportunity to vulnerable families.
In Kenya, Nancy George Academy now serves around 450 children in the rural village of Soy. Demand for places continues to grow as families seek quality education and the pastoral support offered by Pastor Robert Mulumbi and his team.
In Sierra Leone, Adullam Missions Preparatory School is helping hundreds of children discover new opportunities through education while providing hope and encouragement to families throughout the community.
Across Uganda, schools are not only educating children but strengthening communities. At Maranatha Primary School, farming projects and practical support programmes help sustain vulnerable families. While at Jesus the Way Primary School, recent improvements have created a safer environment for around 350 children.
Elsewhere, we see God's love being demonstrated in different ways.
Through Emmanuel Press in South Africa, Bibles, Christian literature and correspondence courses are reaching people across southern Africa. New ministry opportunities have emerged in Mozambique and Malawi, taking the Gospel to communities that might otherwise never encounter it.
In Bangladesh, Home of the Champions recently celebrated the graduation of Happy Mardi and Anik Biswas, both now preparing for university. Their achievements are a powerful testimony to what can happen when children are given love, stability and opportunity.
At Frishta Home in India, children are thriving academically, socially and spiritually through the faithful care of staff and volunteers who are investing in their future every day.
In Ethiopia, the Right Path Child Development team continue supporting sponsored children while helping families establish livelihoods and build greater independence.
And in the Philippines, the World in Need team continue supporting children through education, family assistance and discipleship, helping families not only overcome immediate challenges but build stronger futures.
We also continue to support ministries in Pakistan and India that must remain unnamed for security reasons. While we cannot share their stories publicly, we know they are faithfully serving their communities and sharing the hope of Christ in difficult circumstances.
As I reflect on everything I have heard and seen, I am reminded of Jesus' words:
"Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40)
That verse captures the heart of World in Need.
Whether it is a sponsored child attending school, a widow receiving support, a family starting a small business, a student graduating, or a community hearing the Gospel for the first time, these are not simply charitable activities. They are opportunities to reflect the love of Christ in practical and transformative ways.
To everyone who prays, gives, sponsors a child, volunteers or supports this ministry in any way—thank you. You are part of this story. The impact being made across Africa and Asia is only possible because together we are responding to the call of Jesus to care for those in need and to make disciples of all nations.
I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to sharing many more stories of God's faithfulness.
CEO, World in Need
