Starting the Year with Joy and Purpose
What a joyful and busy start to 2026 it has been for us as AIA staff! We began the year by getting our administrative matters in order and preparing for UJ Societies Week, which was hosted in February. This annual event at the University of Johannesburg provides a valuable opportunity for AIA to meet many first-year students, come alongside them in their journey, and introduce them to the God who has given them their unique abilities and talents.
After concluding our meet-and-greets with excited new students, a vibrant team of eight Americans—who were visiting during their Spring Break—joined us on campus to share how Christ has impacted their lives beyond the sports field. Rugby, netball, and soccer were the order of the day as we visited team training sessions and shared about a Saviour whose love does not depend on our performance.
A Brave Step of Faith: Junior’s Story
As if that was not exciting enough, a young man named Junior prayed to receive Christ and has boldly decided to leave his family’s church, the ZCC. Please pray for him as he anticipates possible conflict as a result of following the one true God. It is a joy to watch him in Bible studies, where he eagerly asks questions and shows great enthusiasm for his new life in Christ. Paris and Dudu, two new netball players, are also very curious about following Jesus and have been actively participating and sharing during our Wednesday Bible studies.
Walking Forward with Faith in 2026
Looking ahead, we are excited about the annual Ultimate Training Camp (UTC), taking place from 25–30 April in Zimbabwe. Hundreds of leaders and students are preparing to be challenged physically, mentally, and spiritually through UTC’s diverse programme. Worship, sermons, team challenges, and obstacle courses all form part of this impactful camp, which leaves a life-changing mark on many young athletes who attend.
Our dream as AIA in 2026 is simple: we trust God to make our feet beautiful this year, as Scripture says, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news” (Isaiah 52:7). May we faithfully go, serve, and share the gospel wherever God leads us.
Karabo Marima
AIA South Africa