Kenya’s population is predominantly young, with over 75% of the population under 35 years old. That means the future of our churches, families, and communities rests on the shoulders of young people. However, the truth is that many young adults lack the guidance, discipleship, and leadership training they need to develop into faithful Christian leaders. So, where will this next generation of leaders come from, and how will they be prepared?
At iServe Africa, we believe one of the most effective answers is apprenticeship.
What is the iServe Africa Apprenticeship Program?
The iServe Africa Apprenticeship is a one-year, full-time program that allows recent university graduates to grow in godliness, gain ministry and work experience, and serve in practical ways across Kenya. Participants are placed in communities, from rural Marsabit to busy Nairobi, where they are mentored, trained in Bible handling, and immersed in real-life ministry and service. It’s a journey that shapes both character and calling.
Whether teaching children, discipling teens, or helping in local churches, hospitals, and schools, apprentices grow through doing, serving, and reflecting, all under the guidance of mature Christian mentors.
A Biblical Model of Leadership
The idea of apprenticeship isn’t new; it’s deeply biblical. Jesus chose twelve disciples and lived with them, taught them, corrected them, and sent them out. Paul mentored Timothy, instructing him to hold firmly to sound doctrine and pass it on to others, a verse we treasure from 2 Timothy 2:2, which shapes the heart of our program. This kind of life-on-life training is what iServe Africa is all about.
Leadership begins with followership, learning to follow Jesus faithfully before leading others.
- Our program helps apprentices grow in:
- Personal Bible study and theological understanding
- Spiritual disciplines like prayer, community, and accountability
- Humility, servant-heartedness, and resilience
The Impact: More Than Just a Program
Many of our apprentices testify that their year with iServe Africa was a turning point, both spiritually and personally and professionally.
They learn to:
- Serve in unfamiliar or challenging environments
- Work in teams, manage time, and take responsibility
- Engage people from different backgrounds with compassion and clarity
- Share their faith in everyday life
As one apprentice said, “I came unsure of what God wanted from me. But through this year, I’ve learned to trust Him, serve others, and stand on His Word.”
Over the years, apprentices have gone on to become pastors, missionaries, doctors, teachers, NGO leaders, and community builders, men and women marked by integrity, humility, and a deep love for Jesus.
Youth Mentorship That Shapes a Nation
At iServe Africa, we’re not just running a program. We’re investing in people who will shape the future of Kenya and beyond. Apprenticeship is our way of answering the call for Christian leadership training, youth mentorship in Kenya, and intentional discipleship.
And we can’t do it alone.
How You Can Be Part of the Story
- Are you a young person longing to grow and serve? Apply to our apprenticeship program and take a step toward a deeper purpose.
- Are you a parent, pastor, or mentor? Encourage someone to join the program, your nudge could change their life. If you are a pastor, you can also take on an apprentice to serve with you for a year or more as you mentor and expose them to ministry and service.
- Are you a donor or well-wisher? Partner with us financially to make it possible for more young people to be trained and mentored in godly leadership.
- Are you an alumnus? Come back and mentor. Share your story. Help the next apprentice thrive.
Why It Matters
Apprenticeship matters because the next generation matters. The church in Kenya, and Africa at large, needs faithful, humble, and equipped leaders. Not tomorrow. Now.
Will you join us in preparing them?
👉🏽 Learn more about the iServe Africa Apprenticeship Program here.
👉🏽 Give to support an apprentice.
👉🏽 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more stories @iServe Africa