By Tiffany Karuri
Charles’ life journey is one of resilience, hope, learning and positive transformation. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Charles’ early years were shaped by the teachings of the Apostolic Church and a close-knit family, including his 17-year-old daughter, whose love for her is one of the driving forces behind his walk with Christ and his vision for the future.
These formative experiences instilled in him a deep sense of faith and community, which are values that would continue to guide his steps, even across continents. His life took an unexpected turn when a friend in Zimbabwe introduced him to the Disney program. Wanting to have a new experience and a chance to learn something new, he applied for the program, passed the interview, and arrived in the United States a year ago.
The experience has been both enriching and challenging. While he enjoyed the opportunity to learn and grow within such a global organisation, he also faced profound cultural differences. Being in a first-world country where the cultural norms are so different and even clash with his own, he found himself having a hard time adjusting to some of them. “The absence of a Christian fellowship was the first thing I struggled with when I arrived”, Charles recalls. He also could not help but feel that a lack of African representation made it difficult at times. Yet Charles embraced the challenge, pushing himself to adapt and to see the value in the lessons and experience the program offered.
There was a transformative moment in the middle of all the challenges that he believes was God’s way of taking care of him. His meeting with Pastor Jon and his wife, Heather. “Their presence has made my stay here much more fulfilling and has given me a sense of family away from home.” Heather had introduced herself to him as part of their ministry, The Gathering, in serving the Disney cast. Their ministry is involved in reaching out to those working in the theme park industry, helping them overcome challenges related to work, faith, and relationships. “She invited me to a bible study, where I met other cast members from around Africa, too, which in turn, turned into my spiritual family.” This friendship has been a source of strength and encouragement to him. Pastor Jon became a mentor and spiritual guide, walking alongside Charles in his journey of faith. In a powerful step of commitment, Charles chose to be baptised by Pastor Jon, marking a defining moment in his life abroad.
As his time here comes to an end and he prepares to return home, what’s next for Charles?
Resettling will not be easy, but he carries with him both experience, a renewed heart, and a God-given vision. He will need resources to establish himself again. But his plans are rooted in hope and purpose. Encouraged by the example of his mentor, Pastor Jon, he dreams of starting a learning seminary for the youth in his community. He sees great potential in the young people of Malawi and Zimbabwe but knows they lack the training and mentorship to step into their callings. Charles desires to fill that gap by starting something that will equip young men and women not only with practical skills but also with the Word of God. Alongside this, he feels led to train for ministry, ready to serve wherever God opens the door.
Charles’ journey is more than a personal story—it is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of mentorship. From Zimbabwe to Malawi, from Disney to discipleship, he is a man preparing not just to return home, but to invest in the lives of others and shape the next generation.
