Five teacher education students from Canterbury Christ Church University in the UK arrived at Mwika Integrity School in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania almost 11 years ago.  I can’t believe it is so long ago but we have continued our love for what Seeds of Love charity directed by our dear friend Thomas Soi, ever since.

Thomas Soi was there to meet us all those years ago, his friendly warm greeting and constant welcoming smile immediately put the student teachers.  It was he that introduced us to the place, to the staff and the children, he who organised the support and care that we all received.  It was Thomas who made sure that the students (who had never travelled outside of Europe) felt safe and secure – and he did this with his ever-present smile and strong ability to transcend cultural differences with the warmth and friendliness of his character.  He introduced us to the church and his marvellous musical leadership there and showed us how deeply he cared for the children in the community.  We have been so pleased to read of the developments in his own family life, his marriage, his children, his music and the development of his strong leadership skills in the Seeds of Love organisation.  We wish him and his team great success and know that through love he has shown how great things can be done.

Jonathan Barners lecturer at Canterbury Christ Church University