From 28 September to 4 October 2025, leaders and practitioners from across The Salvation Army’s Africa Zone gathered in Kenya for the Journey for Change Conference. This event brought together representatives from all territories in Africa that operate residential care facilities for vulnerable children – including children’s homes, places of safety, and orphanages.
The conference focused on transforming the way care is provided to children and youth, with a strong emphasis on strengthening family-based care. Topics included The Need to Change, Rethinking Children’s Homes, What Good Care Looks Like, and Future Options. Participants engaged in coaching sessions, group work, and training led by experts from Casa Viva, SFAC, and Hope and Homes for Children, in collaboration with the International Headquarters team.
From South Africa, Major Tersia Finn (Joseph Baynes Children’s Home), Major Reginah Mcineka (Carl Sithole Children’s Home), Captain Nonkosazana Memani (Ethembeni Children’s Home), and Major Brendan Browski (Secretary for Programme) contributed to the dialogue and learning.
The core purpose of the conference was clear: to improve the quality of care offered to vulnerable children and youth across the continent. By walking together and sharing insights, the delegates left inspired to lead change in their local contexts – ensuring that every child receives the love, support, and dignity they deserve.
