South Africa Newsletter, July
Some milestones deserve more than a celebration.
Recently, EMI South Africa gathered to celebrate the signing of our 100th project. While reaching this milestone is an incredible achievement, it quickly became clear that the afternoon was about far more than a number. It was a celebration of God's faithfulness and the countless people He has brought together over the years to help design a world of hope.
As guests arrived, they were welcomed by a display of photographs capturing projects from across EMI South Africa's journey. Each image told a story of communities served, relationships built and lives impacted. Around the room, familiar faces sparked memories, laughter and conversations as staff reflected on projects that had shaped not only communities, but also their own faith and calling.
Above left: Henco Posthumus chatting with volunteer Ben Shinabery and intern Niza Chewe. Above right: Gerhard van de Merwe sharing his thoughts and reflections celebrating the 100 project milestone while looking forward to the next 100 projects.
The celebration was made even more special by the presence of those who have walked alongside EMI over the years. We were delighted to welcome EMI South Africa Board Member Bruce Barr, long-time volunteer Ben Shinaberry, Deirdre Botha, as well as family members including Trudie Broekmann, Bianca and Ezra Posthumus. Their presence served as a reminder that behind every project is a wider community of supporters, spouses, volunteers and friends whose encouragement and commitment make this work possible.
Messages from colleagues across the wider EMI family added another meaningful layer to the celebration. Though separated by distance, their words reminded us that we remain united in one mission, serving together across the globe for God's Kingdom.
Of course, no EMI celebration would be complete without a design challenge. Armed with little more than paper, string and determination, teams embraced a light-hearted design challenge that quickly filled the room with laughter, innovative thinking and a healthy dose of friendly competition. It was a wonderful reflection of what makes EMI so special: people from different disciplines working together to create something greater than they could alone.
Above left: Board Member Bruce Barr (up front) along with his team members during the design challenge, ‘Crossing the Gap.’ Above right: Our very own Pradino (left) judging each of the design attempts made to find a winning team.
Throughout the afternoon, one truth stood out above all else: every one of our 100 projects represents far more than drawings, reports or construction plans. Behind each project are faithful staff, volunteers, board members, donors, interns, families, ministry partners and communities, all woven together by God's hand into a much bigger story.
As we celebrate this milestone, we do so with deep gratitude for everyone who has played a part in the journey so far. We thank God for His faithfulness over every project, every challenge and every opportunity He has provided to serve others through engineering, architecture and design.
Above: A visual look back on the impact EMI South Africa has made over the 100 projects.
Support Future Projects Here
One hundred projects marks an incredible chapter in EMI South Africa's story, but we're even more excited for the countless stories still waiting to be written. As we look ahead, we invite you to continue this journey with us. Through your prayers, encouragement and financial support, you become part of the next story God is writing, bringing hope to communities around the world through design.
