Background

I come from The Netherlands, and grew up in what was then a farmer’s village. After secondary school, I went to University to study African Linguistics – though not particularly with a view of going into mission work. However, I came from a Christian home and my parents had always taken us along to missionary meetings etc., which had made me aware of the world around us. Though I grew up in a Christian home I didn’t come to know the Lord till I was in my last year at university. It was during a sermon on John 1:14 that the Lord opened my heart and made me understand that grace is a free gift, abundantly available for all.

After I finished my studies I went to the UK and moved around in several jobs. I finally settled for a job in the NHS, working as a clinical risk co-ordinator (no hands-on). I was beginning to enjoy the financial freedom when a representative from Mission Africa came to speak at our church. I didn’t like it very much, as it just didn’t coincide with the plans I had in mind for the immediate future. However, God continued to speak I applied with Mission Africa and was accepted in June 2007.  Right now I am preparing for my departure to Burkina Faso September 08, knowing that He will make clear where I am to do.