Jenna Javens

Hope is such a simple word in a complicated world.
It changes things, and sees what God sees.

Hope is that precious little whisper that always gets the last word.
My name is Jenna Javens and I want to walk in hope, offering it to those around me. My first trip to the continent of Africa in 2002 gave me a new perspective on hope. It was then that Africa got under my skin and God created in me a strong call to return. After graduating from college in 2004, I moved to rural South Africa where I served for two years as a 5th grade missionary teacher to children of the Xhosa tribe. I became captivated by the South African people, delighted in their simplicity of life and grew in compassion for the struggles that their continent faces. After returning to the States in 2007, God placed an ache in my heart to serve in the country of Botswana. I carry a burden over the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the countless orphans, and the next generation of youth.

The beautiful country of Botswana has had four decades of a stable and progressing government and has created one of the most dynamic economies in Africa. In the face of the country’s successes, it also has one of the world’s highest known rates of HIV/AIDS infection. As of 2003, it is estimated that 350,000 people in the country are living with HIV/AIDS; 120,000 children under the age of 17 have lost their mother, father, or both to AIDS (2005). God has called me to bring hope and purpose to the next generation of youth in Botswana.
In January 2009, I will be moving to Mochudi, Botswana as a Foursquare Missionary. I will be the National Youth Coordinator at the Southern African Leadership Training School (SALT) and Bible college. My role will be working with youth through HIV/AIDS purity education, mentoring and discipleship, evangelism, outreach, church planting and eventually facilitating orphan care.

While the needs are great, I feel God’s call to Botswana with great anticipation. Please know I am humbled by your willingness to join me on this adventure. The path ahead leads to investment in the next generation in Botswana and will offer hope and change lives into eternity.