Jim King is the chairperson for JKI-USA. Jim graduated from Bluffton High School in 1972 and Bluffton College in 1976, with a religion degree. For thirty-four years, he served the ministry of Youth for Christ/Campus Life. This included working with middle and high school students. Jim also taught on the regional and national level, specifically dealing with leading volunteers.
In 2008, Jim became a pastor at Ebenezer Mennonite Church. He served in this capacity until his retirement in November of 2021. As a YFC leader and pastor, Jim has taken twenty mission trips to France and several in Haiti. In the summer of 2023, Jim travelled to Tanzania and presented teachings on leadership and discipleship.
Jim is married to his supportive and encouraging wife of forty-eight years, Patty. Together they have three married daughters and ten grandchildren. He has a heart to share the good news of Jesus, across the street and around the world. Jim looks forward in using the gifts God has given him to further His Kingdom work.
Paul Neufeld Weaver, EdD is Director of Global Education, Professor of Education and Spanish, and Director of the Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center at Bluffton University in Bluffton, Ohio, USA.
Daniel Migera, CEO of Jamii Kwanza Initiative, is a transformative leader committed to eradicating gender-based violence in Tanzania and beyond. With a background in pastoral work, education management, program coordination, and resource mobilization, he brings a diverse skill set to his advocacy. Daniel holds degrees in Business Administration, Bible Studies, and diplomas in Theology, along with certifications in peacebuilding and grant management. His leadership emphasizes integrity, transparency, accountability, dignity and credibility, aiming for a future where communities thrive without violence or inequality.
Kurt Denlinger is from Hartville Ohio. He attends Bethany Mennonite Church where he serves in several roles, including men's ministry and discipleship. He is a construction worker, musician, and husband. Kurt's passion is to see people find healing and purpose in Christ. With 2 trips to Tanzania already under his belt, Kurt is excited to work alongside JKI and serve Jesus together.
Since 2022, Matthew Cordella has served as the pastor of Pike Mennonite Church in Elida, Ohio. Previously, he belonged to the ordinary faculty of Rosedale Bible College, where he taught various courses related to Christian faith and public witness. Matthew is especially passionate about promoting a biblical worldview through educational opportunities, affirming that each human being possesses inherent dignity and enduring purpose as God’s image in creation. He is honored to serve on the board of the Jamii Kwanza Initiative, where he desires to help Christians in the United States express their faith through finance, for the good of God’s image in Tanzania.