ION Africa Consultation Nov 2018

ION Africa consultation was held at eMseni Conference Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa from November 27 to 29, 2018. It brought together 130 participants from 21 countries. Among the participants, 110 were from Africa while 20 were from outside Africa. There were 20 youth that attended this consultation registering the highest number of youth since ION Africa started consultations.

The 3-day program included presentations, interactive dialogue and panel discussions under the theme “Reaching Out to Oral Communicators; My Responsibility!”.  The event demonstrated the importance of spreading the Word of God through oral means- relying upon the spoken, rather than written word for communication that include storytelling, drama, music, poetry, the arts and hands-on experiential teaching. This was captured by the presentations made on the 7 Gateways.

Feedback

Attendees at the consultation shared the following about their experience at the consultation

“My overall thought about the conference was very positive. I had so much fun and learned so much in the process too. I really enjoyed the arts and culture segment especially.”– Stephanie, youth from South Africa

“The consultation opened my eyes to different approaches that can be used to share the Gospel orally. I appreciated the presentations and the energy the youth brought. I learnt a lot from the 7 Gateways and I’m excited to take back what I learnt to my community.”– Julius, Founder of KIVA from Zambia

“The gathering of believers from across Africa consolidates all efforts by Africans to use the Gospel to emancipate ourselves. The effort to share the Word in a non-conventional way makes the message more effective.” –Tariro from Zimbabwe

Exhibits

During the consultation, exhibitions were held by South African Theological Seminary (SATS) who provide Biblical, Christocentric, distance education and training to Christians. Other exhibitors included Awana who are committed to the Gospel by reaching to over 4 million kids every week in 120 countries, giving children and youth from every background an opportunity to know, love and serve Jesus for a lifetime. Jesus Film Project displayed their  work in sharing the story of Jesus to the world using film as a medium to introduce the world to Jesus because they believe movies touch the heart and break barriers. KIVA (Kids Voice Africa) believe children have a need to know Jesus and accept Him as Lord and Savior and are involved in advocating for children’s rights. These, among other organizations showed the impact they are making in their communities and across the world.

The consensus of the participants who came, was that this was the best Consultation ION Africa has ever held and it had more impact and well organized. The venue was perfect for such a Consultation and participants appreciated the fact that they came to South Africa and all their accommodation, food and transport costs were met by ION Africa. The participation of the Youth was a big plus for the next generation is seen as crucial for ION Africa. The Youth has elected their own team to lead in Africa and that will be shared later.

Each participant got a certificate of attendance from ION Africa which they had not expected.

Participants were finally challenged to become members of ION Africa by registering and paying the registration fee of $50 because it was indicated that the future Consultations will be advertised to members only though the door will not be closed to all.