When McNeil Siakabwalo joined Kids Alive Zambia in September 2022, he brought with him a deep love for his work and a genuine passion for helping children. He was drawn to the kind of transformative work Kids Alive was doing and found in it a mission that beautifully aligned with his Christian values.
Now three years into his service, MacNeil teaches Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to students, combining technical instruction with faith-filled encouragement. For him, teaching is more than lessons about screens and keyboards—it’s about bringing justice, healing, and hope into children’s lives.
A Gift for Connection
MacNeil has a talent for quickly learning multiple languages. This gift allows him to connect with children across the diverse Kids Alive community. “Having this talent amazes me because I am capable of interacting with almost all the children in the KAI community,” he shares.
Through his multilingual skills, MacNeil builds trust with his students, reminding them they are seen, valued, and capable.
Facing Challenges with Faith
Teaching ICT comes with unique hurdles. Limited access to computers means students often have to share, and power outages sometimes interrupt classes. Even so, he remains hopeful and resourceful, creating lesson blueprints to maximize learning, giving his students the opportunities they deserve.
Advice for Those Who Want to Serve
MacNeil believes nonprofit work is not just a job but a calling. “This calls for someone who is determined, dedicated, and committed to service,” he says. “Serving the children is beyond putting food on the table... It is a calling from God to oversee the well-being of the children.” For him, the Bible verse Matthew 19:14 is a guiding light: “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Living Out “Justice that Heals. Bonds that Mend.”
MacNeil is especially drawn to the words “Justice that Heals” in Kids Alive's tagline. For him, justice must always move toward healing and restoration. “It recognizes the interconnectedness of individuals and communities, and it strives to create a more just and compassionate world by addressing harm, promoting accountability, and fostering reconciliation,” he reflects. Through his teaching and faith, Macneil is helping children see that their future can be one of opportunity, resilience, and healing.
Thank You!
We are grateful to our donors whose faithful support brings passionate teachers like MacNeil to Kids Alive classrooms around the world. Your generosity equips children not only with knowledge and skills, but also with the hope and healing that come through God’s love.
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