Just ten minutes in the presence of Florence Fokoua will leave you encouraged and inspired. She is a groundbreaking leader who has impacted people in many nations. In honor of Women’s Month and International Women’s Day (March 8th), we want to feature one of the many amazing women on the ILI Team!
This is Florence’s story.
When God called me to pursue His vision for my life, there were few women in ministry around me. I had no model to follow. I only knew I had to obey. There weren't many who believed I had a place in ministry. I felt like I was walking alone past an invisible wall where only men were present.
Serving as a Christian, female leader in Africa has not always been easy. I have faced many difficulties in pursuing God’s vision for my life, but He has always proven faithful. In 1998, God began birthing a vision in my heart. My mind swirled with questions. I spent many hours praying, digging into the Word, and begging Him for direction. Finally, He gave me two words, “I care.”
I felt a burden begin to grow and take root in my heart for the youth of Africa. I knew God was calling me to meet their needs.
So with a leap of faith, and the support of my husband, Leo, I-CARE ministry was launched to help youth and young adults develop spiritually and professionally. What began as a discipling relationship with eight young women quickly grew to thousands of leaders trained throughout Cameroon. While the ministry flourished, I fought to juggle the roles of wife, mother, and leader. I remember sobbing while serving in Burkina Faso, pleading with God, “Lord, I don't want my family to suffer because I'm serving in ministry.”
That week, a dear friend wisely told me something that deeply changed my perspective.
“God is the One who called you into this ministry, and you are a part of Christ’s movement. Don't worry about your husband or children. Involve them in the work you are doing.”
Today, my husband and children are my biggest supporters as they pray for me and even travel and work alongside me doing Kingdom work.
Dare to Ask God to give you the power to break through barriers as you follow His vision for your life.
Until all worship,
God’s passion for His people can not be extinguished. Do you embody this same passion?