After an initial period of learning language and culture, workers committed to relocating to South Thailand long-term way wish to explore opening local businesses. As our field and organization is developing efforts in this area, there is an increased awareness and support for this type of work - we can envisage workers (with business experience and entrepreneurially gifted) being able to pioneer such work in our area.
You will contribute to the vision and mission of the team by living and doing business incarnationally among our people. With this foundation you will be involved in sharing the good news of life in Jesus, making disciples and praying in order to kindle movements of Jesus-followers among our people.
The region is known for its plurality with multiple ethnic groups, cultures, religions and languages co-existing in the region. There is also a significant Muslim population, which distinguishes this area from other regions of the country.
With each placement language and culture learning is of great importance as language is a priority and need for our work. New workers would initially engage in full time language studies for up to 1 year (3-12 months) depending on length of placement. This would be followed by part time language study while working in the second year. We want our workers to be skilled in the language and culture of the people before beginning full-time working roles. Therefore, full time work can begin after passing Thai language level 2, which normally takes about 2 years or so.
Most importantly come willing to learn from others, able to adapt to a new culture and be flexible and have a servant heart.
Applicants would need to have experience in business & entrepreneurially gifted to pioneer such work in our area and develop a successful business here. This wouldn't need to be a lone venture as one could start a business with other team members and in the future hand it over to others (expats or nationals) to run on a daily basis.
The applicant should be prepared to live an appropriate lifestyle within the community in which they will live. Among other things, this relates to dressing modestly, and being sensitive to the dietary restrictions of our neighbors, is very helpful as this would build bridges with your neighbours and friends. It also means contextualizing the language we use to share about Jesus. In the local culture it is important that the men relate to the men and the women relate to the women.
1. Committed to direct ministry among our focus people.
2. Able to maintain good spiritual health, even in the face of practical and spiritual challenges.
3. Willing to work together on diverse team of people from different cultures with mutual accountability, but also self-reliance.
*Australian citizens and/or residents only