Meet Justine: A Heart for Children and Faithful Service

If you ever meet Justine, you’ll be struck by her warmth, her nurturing spirit, and her deep commitment to both her family and the Hope Alive! ministry. With 24 years of marriage, four biological children, and one “bonus daughter,” Justine’s heart is firmly planted in her role as a mother and mentor. Her life story is one of faith, perseverance, and a deep desire to help others.

Justine grew up in a family of eight children, where she learned the value of hard work and community. Sadly, her father passed away when she was in Primary 3 (third grade), and her mother, an agricultural worker, was left to raise the children on her own. Despite struggles, Justine’s mother was dedicated to ensuring Justine  could continue her education. In Primary 6 (sixth grade), a church began sponsoring Justine, enabling her to complete secondary school. With her mother’s generous support, she then went on to university.

"I grew up in church," Justine says. "We were encouraged to be at church, and you were told if you didn’t go, you were the one to find the food and to prepare lunch, which kept us motivated to attend church!" she laughed. Her church nurtured her faith and introduced her to the concept of a personal relationship with Christ. Although Justine grew up attending church, it wasn’t until her fourth year of secondary school that she made the personal decision to truly follow Christ after hearing a powerful sermon on the reality of heaven and hell.

Justine met her husband in church, where he was preaching. From there, their relationship blossomed, and he supported her spiritual growth, encouraging her journey. Together, they’ve raised four children—Albert (a university student), Elizabeth Prosper and Dorcas (both in secondary school), and Abigail (P1, or first grade). Three years ago, Carol, who is now in the equivalent of 7th grade,came to live with them because she was struggling. Justine has become a mother figure to Carol, paying her school fees and caring for her as one of her own. "I’ve seen Carol struggle, and I wanted to help her," Justine says. "She’s part of our family now."

Justine’s work with Hope Alive! is a natural extension of her heart for children. Justine served as a mentor for four years before transitioning to a staff role. She’s been a site assistant for four years, supporting financial recordkeeping and offering mentorship to children facing difficult challenges. "When I work with these children, I’m reminded of what I went through," she shares. "It encourages me to keep going. I want them to know that with God’s help, they can overcome their challenges too."

A typical day for Justine starts early—around 5 a.m. She begins her day with 30 minutes of devotion, singing, and praying with her children before sending them off to school. "I don’t see my work as just a job; it’s ministry," she says. After her workday ends at 5 p.m., she heads home to take care of her family’s needs, preparing meals and spending time with her children. It’s a busy, full life but one that brings her immense joy.

What brings Justine the most joy at home? "Seeing my children loving God," she says. "When we fellowship together, it feels like I’ve done what I’m supposed to do. It’s a blessing." Her family also has special traditions that keep them connected—during the holidays, other students often come to their home for fellowship, tea, and games. "Every December, we visit the grandies [i.e. grandparents] and cousins," she adds. "And of course, church is a must every Sunday."

Justine’s life is a testament to the power of faith, hard work, and dedication to both family and service. She’s someone who understands the challenges of growing up in difficult circumstances, and she’s using her experiences to help guide the next generation.