Alumni Success Stories: Meet Benedict Nkambule

Upon completing my Bachelor of Theology Honours in New Testament Studies in 2021 at the University of Pretoria, I became a cadet (seminarian) at the College for Officership Training of The Salvation Army in Southern Africa. I dedicated two years as a seminarian, concluding in my commissioning and ordination in December 2022. Following my ordination, The Salvation Army appointed me as the corps officer (minister) of Mahhashini Circuit, located in the northern region of KwaZulu Natal, with the rank of Lieutenant. While serving at Mahhashini Circuit, I enrolled in a Master of Theology program at the University of Pretoria. Completing the dissertation while engaged in full-time ministry proved to be challenging, requiring me to be adaptable and to appreciate the significance of equipping myself for the responsibilities entrusted to me.

As a minister within The Salvation Army, my appointment extends beyond the corps (church) to encompass the broader community; thus, my primary responsibility is to care for all individuals. I embody the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to the marginalized to bring hope to God's people. I am entrusted with the care of God's flock, nurturing and shepherding them. During my Offiicership training, I met my wonderful wife, Sinothile Nkambule, who was also a cadet. We got married on the 20^th of December 2024.

This year, my wife and I were appointed to Mountain View Settlements, as Corps Officers and Administrators of Mountain View Primary Health Care Clinic and William Booth Boys Hostel. Our clinic services at least 1200 people every month. We have a fixed clinic and a mobile clinic which visits 40 other communities.  Serving in this rural area is immensely rewarding, yet it is a community facing significant challenges, including high unemployment rates, immense poverty and numerous child-headed households. Our mission to 'feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and befriend those who are alone' is of utmost importance.

As an NPO we are reliant on donations for all the work we do especially the operation of the clinic and soup kitchen. My wife and I plan to start a Feminine Hygiene Drive, in which we will collect sanitary towels, tooth paste, toothbrushes etc. which we will give to children in schools and  underprivileged communities we visit with our mobile clinic vehicle. . Assistance from the UP family and broader community is welcomed and will be highly appreciated.  We consider ourselves fortunate to care for the spiritual and overall well-being of all patients who, as well as the boys in the hostel and the church.