Training New Counselors

After the first trip to Zambia to train counselors, it was evident that these women were auditory learners and that printed materials can be confusing. Instead, then, object lessons, role plays, and simple visuals are used by the trainers to introduce new curriculum and ideas.

With no means for recruiting, the only form of publicity is to encourage the “seasoned” GEMS counselors to invite women they know who might like to start GEMS Clubs in their churches to attend training.

• In April of 2008, 75 new women attended three days of training.
• Women of all ages and life circumstances came from around Lusaka, as well as Ndola, a town located about an hour and a half north.
• The women were divided into small groups with a team member as a facilitator. This helped provoke meaningful discussions and foster relationship development.
• By our last day together, they were eagerly reciting the Micah 6:8 aim for GEMS and were understanding what their roles as counselors and Club Coordinators were going to be
• At the end of the third day of training, we commissioned and prayed over the counselors of 16 new clubs. We thanked God for the women and asked for His care, strength, and wisdom for them.