From the Heart of Nyanga: Sakumzi Vapi’s Perspective
This year I had the privilege of working alongside the SMASH team—Students Ministering and Serving Him—at our Nyanga Community Hub. This year’s mission week was nothing short of a epic. The energy, the joy, and the spiritual hunger among our young people were deeply moving.
The SMASH team didn’t just come to run a program—they came to serve, to love, and to lead. Our Holiday Bible Club was a highlight. These high schoolers led worship, facilitated games, taught Bible lessons, and boldly shared their salvation testimonies. It was powerful to see young people ministering to other young people with such authenticity and passion.
Parents noticed the difference too. One even encouraged others to send their children to church after seeing the impact. Some of our Hub kids even visited my church after the program. That’s fruit. That’s transformation.
One unforgettable moment was when the SMASH team and our local youth were dancing and praising God together. The whole room was focused on one thing—lifting up Jesus as King of kings. We are so grateful for this partnership.
From the Frontlines: The SMASH Team’s Perspective
Our mission trip to Nyanga was more than an outreach—it was an assignment. Partnering with The Message Trust South Africa at their Nyanga Community Hub, we stepped into a space where children face daily threats of gangs, drugs, and violence. But for four mornings, we helped create a sanctuary—a “Holy Day” Club—where kids could just be kids, ask deep questions, and encounter the love of God.
Our teens led everything: from icebreakers and worship to Bible teachings and small group discussions. Six of our team members shared their personal salvation stories. The teachings covered everything from the character of God to finding satisfaction in Him alone.
This is what discipleship looks like. Our staff and interns coached the teens, but they took ownership. They didn’t just participate—they led. They didn’t just serve—they ministered. We saw Jack Wyrtzen’s vision come alive: “It is the responsibility of each generation to reach its own generation.”
One of the most powerful moments was watching the local youth and our team worship together—no barriers, just unity in Christ. We didn’t just run a program. We passed the torch.
We’re deeply thankful for our partnership with The Message. All glory to God for what He did in and through the team.
Why Kingdom Partnership Matters
This mission week was a living testimony of what happens when the Body of Christ comes together across generations, cultures, and communities. The Nyanga Hub and SMASH team brought different strengths to the table—but shared one vision: to see the next generation equipped to serve God boldly.
Kingdom partnership is about empowering young people to lead, to teach, and to live out the Gospel. It’s about creating safe spaces where revival can take root. Watch this space for more opportunities to learn, grow and serve together!
