During sports coaching training with OM, Malawi, Zaineb gave her life to Jesus. Today she is using netball and soccer to transform villages for Jesus. This is her testimony as shared with faith-driven storyteller, photographer, and grassroots narrative builder Chris Zuze
My name is Zainab, and I want to share a story with you — a story that changed my life right here in my village, in the Machinga District of Malawi.
It all started when, Chris, one of OM’s SportsLink coaches, invited me to a sports ministry training. I thought it would be just another sports event, but it turned into something much deeper. During the training, I participated in a Discovery Bible Study, and that was the moment I felt a personal connection to Jesus. It was as if I had been introduced to a friend who truly cared for me. After that experience, I made the decision to give my life to Christ. Chris became a mentor to me, walking alongside me while I discovered what it meant to have faith. Interestingly, the sports field — a place I had always cherished — became the very spot where I first encountered Jesus.
Asking questions about worth, dignity as a women
As I dove deeper into my faith, I began to grapple with some intense questions about my worth and dignity as a woman — a topic often overlooked in my culture. Visiting the ministry home base was eye-opening; there, I was treated with love and respect, which contrasted sharply with my everyday experiences. This new perspective pushed me to rethink how we, as followers of Jesus, should treat one another. I started asking myself: “How can I extend that same sense of dignity and respect to other women and girls in my village?”
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My journey of faith blossomed as I engaged consistently with God’s Word. I read the Bible and took part in more Bible studies, which empowered me to start sharing my faith with others. Knowing that literacy is a challenge for many in my area and that we lack church buildings, I adapted my approach. I turned to oral storytelling, Discovery Bible Study methods, and audio Bibles to help others connect with Scripture in a way that feels natural for our community. This approach has allowed me to disciple many people effectively.
Using sport to change perceptions
I live among a cluster of 20 villages, and there’s no church building among us. So, I began reaching out to my peers through small, relationship-based Bible studies. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was the cultural norm of separating boys and girls. In our community, if a boy and girl are seen together, people jump to conclusions about a romantic relationship. I knew I had to shift this narrative, so I used sports as a way to bring us together. By creating opportunities for boys and girls to play together and discuss Scripture, I helped change the community’s perception, allowing youth to share ideas and support each other without fear of gossip.
The change hasn’t gone unnoticed. Community leaders, who once ignored my efforts, have started recognising the positive impact of my work. They even invited me to help connect boys and girls in other villages through sports.
“Underground church” approach
Given the challenges of expressing faith publicly in my area, I’ve adopted an “underground church” approach. I conduct my Bible studies and audio Bible groups discreetly, and young people who commit their lives to Christ can join a special study for deeper discipleship in secret. The transformation is evident; community members are noticing changes in the behaviour of our young people, and more and more are asking for sports ministry opportunities.
My journey has transformed me both personally and publicly. I used to think I couldn’t lead, yet now I find myself guiding many, and they actually listen. The most significant change has been inside me; I can now pray in Jesus’ name and witness God answering my prayers, which fills me with confidence. I know I am saved and that Jesus knows me by name. I have moved from feeling invisible to recognising that I am valued by God and have a meaningful purpose in His Kingdom.
As I share my story, I ask for your prayers. I’ve been facing health challenges that have slowed down my ministry activities and follow-up visits. Additionally, I need a bicycle or motorcycle to reach the surrounding villages for outreach and discipleship. Without proper transportation, it’s tough for me to continue my work.
Transforming power of sports, Scripture and affirming dignity
In summary, my story illustrates how sports, Scripture, and affirming dignity can reshape a community. I have turned cultural barriers into connections, utilised oral storytelling to spread faith where traditional church settings aren’t available and am nurturing a generation of youth who see each other as friends and teammates. Now, community leaders are becoming my partners in this mission, and the demand for my ministry is growing beyond my village.
Thank you for allowing me to share my story. Your support means the world to me and to those I serve.
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