Investing in the Next Generation

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If you’ve been around Amazima for any length of time, then you know that at the core of what we do is discipleship. Amazima exists to make disciples of Jesus through authentic relationships, excellent education, and strengthened communities. Decisions are made through the lens of how we can best facilitate an environment to mentor the students and families under our care.

“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
— 2 Timothy 2:1-2

So what is the definition of discipleship? At Amazima, our mentorship model is built on a “life on life” approach, where mentors invest in the lives of their students through daily life lived together. We have a unique model that includes a team of 3–a single mentor and a married couple in each student dormitory.

Single mentors are important for modeling how to live out one’s purpose and set intentional habits and spiritual disciplines. Married couples are important for modeling a healthy marriage and family dynamic, which for many of our students, is not their reality growing up.

We desire to fill a gap for our students, many of whom come from broken homes or have
experienced parental absence. By providing a positive example of marriage and family, we aim to equip our students with a vision for healthy relationships and a strong foundation for their future.

“And what we’ve seen as a result has been remarkable,” says Ruth Kato, Executive Director of Discipleship, “particularly with our recent graduates.” Students have shared that they aspire to become better mothers and fathers, just like their mentors, and young men have expressed a desire to honor their future wives. This is a testament to the power of intentional mentorship and the impact it can have on shaping the next generation.

One of our graduates, Derrick, put it this way, “while I dream of becoming a software and sound engineer, my biggest dream is to become the best dad ever!”

While we are so excited to be offering a top-notch education, which will provide a bright future, our heart is invested in nurturing kind, compassionate, and servant-hearted people who are passionate about Jesus and committed to making Him known. 50% of the population in Uganda is 16 years or younger. Investing in youth will impact generations to come!

We believe mentorship is a lifestyle where we can connect with our students and point them to Jesus through anything–a soccer game, devotional, or just hanging out after school. Sometimes it is very intentional through mentorship programs where we are studying scripture together and other times, it’s just inviting people into what you are already doing and modeling Christ while doing it.

This model of life-on-life is working. And all it takes is opening your home and your life to those around you. Is there anyone in your life that you are currently mentoring? It just takes a little bit of time and intentionality!

This is how Amazima does mentoring, but what are some ways you could implement discipleship into your life? Check out some ideas below:

  • Intentional conversations with the kids in your car to and from school
  • Inviting the friends of your children into your home for dinner, family movie night, playing games, etc.
  • Starting a Bible study with a group of middle school, high school, or college students
  • Inviting a college student to family dinners in your home
  • Serving in the kids’ ministry at your church
  • Coaching a youth sports team
  • Inviting a neighbor to walk the neighborhood with you
  • Volunteering at a non-profit for children or people in need
  • Hosting a neighborhood barbeque

There are many outlets that can facilitate spiritual investment into those younger (whether by age or spiritually) than you. The invitation is simple: invite someone into what you’re already doing and allow them to see a godly example. Let’s live our lives in a way that impacts future generations.

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