Edward

Edward’s journey to becoming a teacher at the Rafiki Village Zambia began with a simple encouragement from a friend. He learned about the Rafiki Institute of Classical Education (RICE) through a pastor who urged him to apply and guided him through the process. Today, Edward teaches grade 6. His love for teaching the Bible is at the heart of his work, shaping both his faith and his daily life. 

“I love the environment. I love the people, the staff I work with, and the leadership, but mostly being exposed to the Word of God daily,” Edward shares. “I count it a privilege because most people just get to hear the Word of God on Sunday, but I get to do it Monday to Friday and then Sundays.” 

Growing up without strong male role models, Edward experienced firsthand the challenges of finding direction without a father’s guidance. Reflecting on his own childhood, he explains, “I had stepfathers, but then it wasn’t really like that father-son relationship where you are nurtured to be the man that society would admire. … God has been my father since I came to know him, and he has taken up that role since he is the Father of the fatherless.” That experience fuels his dedication to his students, particularly boys from broken homes or separated families. 

Edward’s intentional care extends beyond the classroom. He teaches Sunday School to children ages three to eight at Chongwe Baptist Church, where he is also an usher and active in youth and young adult ministries. He draws on his teaching at Rafiki to disciple the children at church and at home, including his youngest sibling, who is eight years old. “Teaching children here… helps me to apply a little to my sibling,” Edward says. “I incorporate the lesson we teach there and how we teach it here. I married the two, and it works every time.” 

Reflecting on the difference between his education and the education his students receive, Edward notes, “Education that we went to—teachers really did not care. … Here, we intentionally train children, and we are deliberate in what we do—the materials and how we apply them. … They have privileges that I never had.” 

Edward’s commitment to godly instruction is rooted in his own faith. He became a Christian in 2016, mentored by the same pastor who introduced him to RICE. “He told me that salvation is by grace through faith and in Christ alone… I struggled with that, and I was open about it to him. So he preached to me and said, ‘That’s how you have to believe. It comes by faith, and it’s a faith that is also a gift. The works that you do after are the product of you being born again,” Edward recalls. This understanding continues to shape his personal walk with God and his teaching philosophy, as he strives to model servant leadership for his students. 

“I thank God because I get to be to them what I never had,” Edward reflects. “Every day, that’s the greatest gift I give, because I wish I had someone like that.” Today, he sees God’s faithfulness in allowing him to pour into others what he once lacked. Whether guiding students in academics, nurturing their spiritual growth, or modeling integrity and character, Edward’s influence stretches far beyond the walls of his classroom. Above all, he prays for wisdom, guidance, and the ability to serve faithfully in every role God has given him. 

Through his dedication to teaching, discipleship, and mentorship, Edward demonstrates the profound impact of intentional care, faith, and excellence. His life is a testament to the transformative power of God’s guidance and the enduring difference one teacher can make in shaping the next generation.