STORIES FROM THE FIELD

Three Testimonies through the TransformNation Journey

June 30, 2025

XAVIER
TransformNation Alumnus, Site Leader in Serui Island.

Xavier with his students in the Papuan Highlands

 

"It’s been ten years since I began serving children through TfN, and not a day goes by that I don’t think of the many faces who helped shape my journey. Through TfN, I didn’t just receive an education, I found spiritual parents and family. War stole these parts of my childhood before I ever had the chance to hold onto them.

When I was still a TfN student, my sponsors at MSI sent me letters filled with encouragement and prayers. And one of my most treasured memories was coming home each evening to our dorm parents, knowing that they would sit with us and gently ask, “How was your day?” In those quiet moments, I encountered something I had never known before: the heart of a father. Through them, I saw the love of our Heavenly Father who is attentive, loving, and present.

Those experiences changed me. They taught me how to love and care for children, not just as a teacher, but with the heart of Christ. And now, as I support other junior teachers in the field, I carry that same heart forward by helping them raise up children to be godly leaders for the future."


Juanita
First-Year TransformNation Intern

Juanita with her students

 

In my first year of teaching, I was given the opportunity to be a first-grade homeroom teacher. It was incredibly challenging. Many of my students didn’t know the basics of reading, writing, and counting. Several struggled deeply with bad behavior and trauma. Many times, I felt really exhausted. But I told myself to never give up, because I love these kids. I prayed for them every day and tried creative ways to help them learn. But more than anything, it was my relationship with Jesus that gave me the strength.

I’m here because God called me to help children know Him. I trust that God is the One who will shape my students’ character and help them remember everything I teach. I believe God invited me to be part of His work in these children’s lives. Thank you, Mustard Seed donors; because of you, I get to be part of depositing His love into my students’ hearts.


Putra
First-Year TransformNation Trainee

Putra

 

My first year as a TfN trainee has changed me in ways I never expected. I’ve discovered so much about Jesus and He has truly transformed me. I see it in how I’ve grown: I can now manage my emotions, I’ve become more independent, and I’ve fallen in love with learning His Word.

I also discovered a deep joy in being with young children. I love teaching them, being in the classroom, and watching them grow.

I’m so grateful that God has sent kind and generous people to support me through this journey. Because of them, I get to be part of a community that is being equipped to become teachers with purpose. The staff and mentors at TfN have poured their lives into us, and what they’ve shared has strengthened me deeply, spiritually and personally.