How does one person make a lasting difference? Jacques Safari Gugwe’s journey is a great example of this powerful process.

Originally, our World Changers Program in DR Congo was designed for the parents of children attending The ELI Academy. However, as the transformation in these parents became evident, others in the community took notice and asked to join. In response, ELI opened 25% of the program’s spots to community members without children at the school—allowing even more lives to be impacted. Jacques was one of those individuals.

Born in Bukavu, DRC in 1976, Jacques has always had a heart for the marginalized. So, instead of just wishing for change, he took action, joining the DR Congo World Changers Program in 2023. This training not only gave him the tools needed to fulfil a lifelong dream of establishing a school, but also led to a deep personal transformation—freeing him from the grips of alcohol addiction, empowering him to embrace a Christ-centered life, and motivating him to uplift vulnerable children. 

With a renewed sense of purpose, Jacques founded a school that now serves 90 children with a staff of seven. Though resources are limited, his leadership, strengthened by the World Changers training, has cultivated a nurturing environment. He fosters transparency with staff and builds relationships with struggling parents, guiding them spiritually and socially to create a stronger, faith-driven community. Jacques also integrates faith into education through prayer sessions and Bible studies, believing true transformation begins with Christ.

As Jacques says, “I now place myself as a bridge so that the vision can advance.” Thanks to the support of ELI’s World Changer Program, his impact reaches far beyond himself—changing lives and inspiring hope for generations to come.