Day of the African Child - Regional Leader remembers the sacrifice to advancing children's Rights

Mathew Pickard, World Vision Southern Africa Regional Leader, is currently in Mozambique. He capitalized on his interaction with the office staff to highlight the organization's vision: "for every child, life in its fullness," and the collective responsibility of everyone to deliver their part in this journey.

"On the Day of the African Child, it is good to be here with you, to remember the sacrifices that children have made in advancing the rights we enjoy today," the leader stated. "But let us also remember our responsibilities to further advance the rights of children in Mozambique for the future."

Mathew Pickard's return to Mozambique, now as regional leader, marks a significant moment; he began his career in the country 30 years ago as a university intern. At that time, he was assigned a mission to help refugees return home following the 16-year civil war that ended in 1994, leaving a trail of destruction, grief, and poverty, particularly in the country's most remote areas.

In his initial interaction with World Vision Mozambique staff, the regional leader highlighted how honored he felt to join an organization dedicated to serving every child and ensuring they enjoy life in its fullness. He challenged each staff member to reflect on their responsibility in this mission, using Christ as an example.

"Jesus taught through examples," the regional leader noted. "One example I particularly appreciate is the kind of leadership He expects from us. When He went to Jerusalem, He rode on a donkey. Imagine our leaders in different parts of the world who use vehicle caravans with police protection. This is not meant to disrespect our leaders, but rather to convey that Jesus expects a different kind of leadership from you and me."

The leader reminded all staff in Mozambique that the organization's success would be judged by the impact it delivers to the poor. Therefore, he emphasized, the organization's vision should inform the expectations placed on each individual.

During his week-long mission to Mozambique, the regional leader will hold meetings with government and non-governmental organizations, and will interact with children and adolescents during a visit to one of World Vision's implementation sites.

The regional leader invited staff to reflect on their individual responsibilities, posing the question: "What does it mean for me to bring life for every child in its fullness in Mozambique?" He then answered his own question: "For me, it means to bring my best, every day, all the time."