Ep 19: Prison to Purpose 🇺🇸 Paul Del Favero

In Episode 19 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by Paul Del Favero for an honest and deeply hope-filled conversation about redemption, incarceration, mentorship, and the transforming power of Jesus. 

After growing up in South Florida surrounded by addiction, violence, and brokenness, his life spiralled into drug dependency, crime, and eventually a 120-year prison sentence at just 20 years old. Sitting alone in a jail cell, overwhelmed by the weight of who he had become, Paul cried out to Jesus for the first time—and everything began to change. 

What followed was not an instant fix but a long process of transformation. Through years of reading Scripture, wrestling with his past, and allowing God to renew his mind, Paul slowly discovered purpose in the middle of prison life. After serving 18 and a half years behind bars, he was released into a world that offered little support, few opportunities, and overwhelming barriers to reintegration. 

Rather than returning to the life he once knew, Paul began building a new future rooted in faith, community, and service. Today, alongside his wife Stacey, he leads The Penitent Thief ministry (https://www.thepenitentthief.org/) in Orlando, Florida—providing housing, mentorship, discipleship, employment opportunities, and practical support for men and women coming out of incarceration. What started as a small step of obedience has grown into a thriving ministry impacting hundreds of lives every year. 

Together, Tim and Paul explore the realities of prison systems, addiction, rehabilitation, and the stigma formerly incarcerated people often face. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

Redemption and transformation through Jesus 

Addiction, incarceration, and rebuilding identity 

Prison ministry and reentry support 

Mentorship as a catalyst for lasting change 

The importance of community and belonging 

Servant leadership through humility and presence 

Breaking stigma around formerly incarcerated people 

Faith, discipleship, and renewing the mind 

Restorative justice and rehabilitation 

Meeting people where they are with the Gospel 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Paul Del Favero is the founder of The Penitent Thief ministry in Orlando, Florida, a Christ-centred organisation serving formerly incarcerated men and women through housing, mentorship, discipleship, employment support, and reentry programs. After serving more than 18 years in prison, Paul experienced radical transformation through faith in Jesus and now dedicates his life to helping others discover hope, purpose, and restoration. Alongside his wife Stacey, he is passionate about practical ministry, community involvement, and creating pathways for lasting life change. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Follow Forward Podcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: Grab a Towel Newsletter 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: The Message Trust 

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Ep 18: Called Beyond Comfort 🇺🇸 Jake Tirabassi

In Episode 18 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by long-time friend, Jake Tirabassi for an insightful conversation about mission, servant leadership, and learning to trust God through every season of life. 

Growing up in a Christian home in the United States, Jake appeared to "do everything right" on the outside. But during a mission trip to Mexico at 18 years old, God confronted him with a deeper question: was he truly living with God, or simply trying to perform for Him? That moment became the catalyst for a lifelong journey of discipleship and surrender. 

The conversation traces Jake's path from California to Northern Uganda, where he and his wife spent more than five years serving in communities affected by civil war, displacement, and poverty. What began as a short-term commitment turned into years of sports ministry, prison outreach, refugee support, and mentoring young people. 

Jake shares remarkable stories of God moving through simple acts of obedience—including prison soccer matches that led to inmates encountering Jesus—and reflects candidly on the challenges of missionary life, spiritual exhaustion, culture shock, marriage strain, and rebuilding identity after returning home. 

Together, Tim and Jake explore themes of servant leadership, integrity, trust, humility, mentorship, and stewardship. They unpack why relationships—not just resources—are often the key to lasting transformation and why learning dependence on God is one of the greatest lessons the mission field can teach. 

At its core, this episode is about faithful presence: showing up while trusting God and allowing Him to work through ordinary obedience in extraordinary ways. 

Whether you're involved in missions, business, leadership, mentoring, or simply navigating your own calling, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to keep following forward. Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

Living with God instead of simply performing for Him 

Mission, discipleship, and sports ministry in Uganda 

Leadership through humility, integrity, and stewardship 

The importance of mentorship and relational investment 

Lessons learned through hardship and dependence on God 

Cross-cultural mission and navigating spiritual warfare 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Jake Turabasi is a mentor, leader, and former missionary passionate about discipleship, sport, and empowering young people. Originally from California, Jake spent more than five years serving in Northern Uganda through prison ministry, refugee outreach, and sports-based mission work. Today he continues to invest in mentorship and leadership development while carrying a deep passion for Africa and the next generation. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED: 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Follow Forward Podcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: Grab a Towel Newsletter 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: The Message Trust 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

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Episode 17: Rejected to Redeemed 🇿🇦 Shaun Pretorius 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 17 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker sits down with Shaun Pretorius for a deeply honest conversation about rejection, redemption, leadership, and the transforming power of Jesus. 

Raised in Cape Town and shaped by a childhood marked by insecurity and rejection, Shaun shares how years of addiction, broken identity, and searching for acceptance eventually led him to a life-changing encounter with Christ at the age of 23. What began as a Christmas Eve church invitation became the turning point that radically redirected the course of his life. 

Shaun opens up about growing up in Mitchell's Plain and Northpine, wrestling with feelings of not belonging, and trying to numb the pain through drugs and destructive choices. But through God's grace, Shaun experienced freedom, and a healed identity—one rooted not in rejection, but in being fully known and loved by Jesus. 

The conversation also explores Shaun's journey into leadership with The Message South Africa, including the transition into the role of CEO after Tim Tucker's tenure. Together, Tim and Shaun reflect candidly on mentorship, succession, friendship in leadership, and the importance of building Kingdom culture through trust, humility, and authenticity. 

This episode is about more than leadership. It's about identity, perseverance, healing, and learning to trust God through both blessing and battle. 

Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

• From rejection to redemption through Christ 
• Addiction, broken identity, and finding freedom 
• The cost and blessing of following Jesus 
• Leadership, succession, and mentorship 
• Friendship and vulnerability in ministry 
• Trusting God through suffering and uncertainty 
• Prayer, resilience, and God's faithfulness in crisis 
• Reaching young people trapped by gang culture and hopelessness 
• Finding purpose in pain and calling in brokenness 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Shaun Pretorius is the CEO of The Message South Africa and a passionate evangelist and leader based in Cape Town. After encountering Jesus following years of addiction and brokenness, Shaun has dedicated his life to reaching young people with the hope of the gospel. His leadership is marked by authenticity, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving communities affected by poverty, gang violence, and hopelessness. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED: 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: Follow Forward Podcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: Grab a Towel Newsletter 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: The Message Trust 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

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Ep 16: Faith in the Fire 🇳🇬 Following God in Nigeria

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE

In Episode 16 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by disciple-maker and missionary Ali "OG" Sampson for a raw and compelling conversation about obedience, identity, and following Jesus in one of the most challenging contexts in the world.

Known as "OG" — meaning 'Obey God' — Ali shares how God redeemed his identity and calling, transforming his life from confusion and brokenness into a mission focused on discipling young people in Nigeria. Raised in a Christian home but lacking deep discipleship, Ali's journey includes seasons of drifting, wrestling with faith, and ultimately encountering God in a way that reshaped everything.

Now based in Jos, Nigeria, Ali and his wife, Ruth, are on the frontlines of ministry—working with young people impacted by poverty, violence, and systemic oppression. In a region marked by persecution and instability, their focus is clear: not just making converts, but raising disciples who can multiply and transform their communities.

This episode explores the tension between calling and comfort, the cost of obedience, and the power of long-term discipleship in places where faith is tested daily. From a providential email connection to a growing partnership with The Message Trust, Ali's story is a powerful reminder that when we say "yes" to God, He can use our lives far beyond what we imagine.

At its core, this episode is about faith under pressure—and what it really means to follow Jesus when it costs something.

Whether you're navigating your own calling, leading others, or wanting to understand the realities of the global Church, this conversation will both challenge and inspire you. Enjoy.

🔑 KEY THEMES

* Redeeming identity: from "OG" as culture to *Obey God* as calling

* The gap between conversion and true discipleship

* Why disciple-making—not just mobilising—is the mission

* Following God when the path is unclear or costly

* Ministry in contexts of persecution, poverty, and instability

* The role of prayer, resilience, and obedience in leadership

* Multiplication: raising disciples who make disciples

* Responding to trauma and injustice through the gospel

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST

Ali "OG" Sampson is a disciple-maker and missionary based in Jos, Nigeria. Passionate about reaching young people in hard-to-reach communities, he focuses on raising disciples who will multiply and bring transformation in their contexts. Together with his wife Ruth, he is helping build a growing movement of disciple-making in partnership with The Message Trust.

👤 ABOUT THE HOST

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of *Grab a Towel*, *Grief and Grace*, and *Finding Life After Death*, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast.

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose.

🔔 STAY CONNECTED:

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: [https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast](https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast)

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: [https://grabatowel.site/contact/](https://grabatowel.site/contact/)

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: [https://messageglobal.org/](https://messageglobal.org/)

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE

If this conversation encouraged you:

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Episode 15: Addiction to Assignment 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 15 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by missionary and disciple-maker Michael Kenyon (https://www.kenyoncovenant.com/) for a powerful conversation about transformation through calling and the long game of discipleship. 

Growing up in a small town in Northern California, Michael's early life was marked by broken family relationships and a deep drive to prove himself. After pursuing a career as a chef and seemingly achieving everything he set out for, his life took a dramatic turn, leading to homelessness and addiction on the streets of America. 

It was in that lowest place that Jesus met him. What followed was a journey of restoration and surrender that would ultimately lead him across the world to Cambodia. 

Now living in Cambodia with his family, Michael is part of a ministry working with young people coming out of trafficking, poverty, and generational trauma. Through a deeply relational and intentional approach, he is helping raise up leaders by focusing not on quick results but on long-term discipleship that brings lasting transformation. 

At its core, this episode is a compelling reminder that no story is beyond redemption—and that when we follow Jesus faithfully, He can turn survival into a life of service. 

Whether you're involved in ministry, leadership, or simply seeking to understand your calling, this episode will challenge and encourage you. Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

• From brokenness to calling: how God redeems every part of our story 
• The power of discipleship as a long-term, relational investment 
• Why belonging is essential in reaching people with the gospel 
• Addressing trauma, poverty, and purpose through holistic ministry 
• Raising leaders who disciple others for generational impact 
• Trusting God's guidance even when the path doesn't make sense 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Michael Kenyon is a missionary and disciple-maker based in Cambodia. Originally from the United States, he encountered Jesus after a period of homelessness and addiction, and now dedicates his life to walking alongside young people from vulnerable backgrounds. Through business, mentorship, and community, Michael is passionate about raising leaders who will bring lasting transformation to their communities. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED: 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

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🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review on your podcast app 

Ep 14: Called Beyond Borders 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 14 of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim Tucker is joined by Emmanuel Agbovi—an exemplary leader and co-founder of Developing Africa Together (https://www.developingafricatogether.org/) , now based in Cleveland, Ohio. 

In this inspiring conversation, Emmanuel shares his journey from growing up in Lomé, Togo, to building a life in the United States—while remaining deeply committed to serving his home country. His story is a powerful picture of what it means to live with purpose across borders. 

From navigating cultural transitions and staying grounded in faith to responding to the needs he witnessed back home, Emmanuel unpacks how small acts of obedience can lead to extraordinary impact. What began as supporting a few students grew into a movement—building schools in communities and creating opportunities for the next generation in Togo. 

He also shares the remarkable story of how a simple $100 challenge sparked the vision for Developing Africa Together, leading to the construction of multiple schools and ongoing community transformation. 

This episode explores the tension and beauty of living between two worlds, the importance of staying rooted in Christ, and the power of using what you have—right where you are—for God's purposes. 

We pray this conversation will encourage you to step out in faith, steward what God has given you, and live boldly for His calling—wherever He has placed you. 

Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

Living with purpose across borders 

Faith and identity in seasons of transition 

The power of small beginnings and obedience 

Education as a tool for transformation 

Diaspora leadership and giving back 

Kingdom partnership and sustainable impact 

Building communities through faith and action 

Leadership rooted in character and Christ

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Emmanuel Agbovi is a leader, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Developing Africa Together, an initiative focused on expanding access to education and transforming communities in Togo. Based in Cleveland, Ohio, he also serves as an advisory board member for The Message Trust USA and is passionate about leadership development, faith, and global mission. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. 

He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 

https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: 

https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: 

https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

👍 Like 

💬 Comment 

🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 13 of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim Tucker is joined by Mahlet (Mahi)—a purpose-driven leader and youth empowerment champion leading The Message Trust Ethiopia Hub in Addis Ababa: https://messageethiopia.org/  

In this powerful conversation, Mahlet shares her journey of encountering Jesus at a young age amid fear and trauma—and how that moment marked the beginning of a life fully devoted to Him. 

Growing up in Ethiopia within an Orthodox Christian context, Mahlet reflects on the difference between religious tradition and a personal relationship with Jesus and how God revealed Himself to her in a real and transformative way. 

From overcoming fear and shame to stepping into leadership roles in church, university fellowships, and now national ministry, her story is one of perseverance, and divine calling. She also speaks about a season of deep doubt—where she questioned everything—only to encounter the overwhelming love of Jesus again in a life-changing way. 

Now leading young people in Ethiopia, Mahlet carries a passion to see her generation rise with purpose, faith, and boldness in sharing the gospel. 

This episode is a compelling reminder that God uses every part of our story—our fears, doubts, and breakthroughs—to shape us for His purpose. 

We pray that this conversation will encourage you to keep your faith, trust His leading, and follow Him wholeheartedly. 

Enjoy.  

🔑 KEY THEMES 

• Encountering Jesus in fear and uncertainty  
• Religion vs relationship with Christ  
• Overcoming shame and stepping into bold faith  
• Leadership development in church and campus ministry  
• Navigating doubt and rediscovering God's love  
• Calling, purpose, and surrender  
• Youth empowerment and mission in Ethiopia  
• Living by faith, not by sight  

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Mahlet (Mahi) is a purpose-driven leader and youth empowerment champion leading The Message Trust Ethiopia Hub in Addis Ababa. She is passionate about equipping young people to live with purpose, grow in faith, and impact their communities for Christ. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. 

He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 

https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: 

https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: 

https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

👍 Like 

💬 Comment 

🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review 

Ep 12: Being A Family on Mission 🔊 Jonathan & Angela Burgess

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 12 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by Jonathan and Angela Burgess—husband and wife, parents of five, and co-founders of Transform EDM (https://www.newreleasetoday.com/artistdetail.php?artist_id=5121) —for a rich and wide-ranging conversation about faith, family, and mission. 

Broadcasting from Denver, Colorado, but with roots in South Africa, Jonathan and Angela share how their lives have been shaped by a legacy of mission—and how they are now carrying that forward in a unique and creative way. 

From youth ministry to global music platforms, their journey reflects a deep commitment to staying faithful to the call of God while navigating the realities of marriage, parenting, and leadership. Together, they unpack what it means to live as a family on mission—refusing to compartmentalise faith, and instead integrating it into every part of life. 

At the heart of their ministry is a simple but powerful framework: Jesus, Life, and Worship. Whether through music, discipleship, or advocacy, their focus remains on sharing the gospel, defending the vulnerable, and leading people into authentic encounters with God. 

This episode is an honest exploration of identity, calling, and stewardship—reminding us that influence flows not from platform, but from intimacy with Christ. 

Whether you're leading in ministry, raising a family, or seeking to live out your faith more intentionally, this conversation will encourage you to hold your calling with open hands and follow Jesus faithfully in every season. 

Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

Family on mission vs compartmentalised faith 

Leading from identity, not performance 

Balancing ministry, marriage, and raising children 

Creative approaches to sharing the gospel 

The role of music as a tool for mission 

Advocating for life and justice through faith 

Stewardship and holding calling with open hands 

The importance of local church and community 

👤 ABOUT THE GUESTS 

Jonathan and Angela Burgess are the founders of Transform EDM, a ministry that uses electronic music as a platform to share the gospel, lead worship, and advocate for life. Based in Denver, Colorado, they are passionate about reaching young people, equipping leaders, and living out their calling as a family on mission. Together with their five children, they seek to integrate faith into every part of life—raising up the next generation while staying rooted in Christ. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. 

He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 

https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: 

https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: 

https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

👍 Like 

💬 Comment 

🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review on your podcast app 

Ep 11: Life-on-Life Leadership 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In this episode of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by Esther Katooko Kabanda, team leader of The Message Trust Uganda (https://messageuganda.ug/), for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about discipleship that's in for the long haul and what it truly means to lead like Jesus. 

Esther's story begins in Uganda, where she was raised in a deeply committed Christian home. But despite this foundation, her journey took an unexpected turn as she wrestled with deep loneliness and inner struggles from a young age—challenges that ultimately became the very place where she encountered God most personally. 

From those formative moments, Esther developed a faith that was not inherited but deeply personal. Her journey through university tested that faith even further, forcing her to confront her dependence on God and rediscover what it means to truly follow Christ. 

Now leading the work of The Message Trust in Uganda, Esther is helping pioneer a discipleship-focused model that prioritises depth over numbers. From small group Bible engagement in schools to mentoring young people in vulnerable communities, her leadership reflects a commitment to seeing individuals known, formed, and empowered. 

At its core, this episode is a call back to the heart of the Great Commission: not just to make converts but to make disciples. 

Whether you're a ministry leader, youth worker, or someone passionate about raising the next generation, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what lasting impact really looks like. 

Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

• The difference between crowd-building and true discipleship 
• How God uses hidden struggles to form authentic faith 
• Why discipleship must be relational, intentional, and Scripture-centered 
• The importance of seeing people as individuals, not numbers 
• Raising leaders through long-term investment and accountability 
• Creating sustainable models for transformation in vulnerable communities 
• Faithfulness in the small, unseen moments of leadership 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Esther Katooko Kabanda is the Team Leader of The Message Trust Uganda, based in Kampala. She is passionate about discipleship, youth development, and raising Christ-centered leaders through life-on-life mentorship. Esther's leadership is shaped by a deep conviction that true transformation happens through intentional relationships grounded in Scripture. She is currently helping pioneer discipleship initiatives in schools and vulnerable communities, with a vision to see young people equipped spiritually and practically for lasting impact. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. 

He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 

https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: 

https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: 

https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

👍 Like 

💬 Comment 

🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review on your podcast app 

Episode 10: Survival to Service 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 10 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by Jervie Magat for a deeply moving conversation about resilience and the transforming power of God's grace. The podcast was recorded shortly after Typhoon Fung-wong had hit the Philippines in November 2025.  

Jervie's story begins in the Philippines, where he grew up in a large family in the province of Pampanga. After the death of his father and mounting medical bills, his family's life quickly unravelled. Eventually, they lost their home and found themselves living on the streets of Manila, surviving day by day through feeding programmes and the kindness of strangers. 

Everything began to change when Jervie encountered the love of Christ through the work of the Center for Community Transformation (https://cct.org.ph/). What started as a search for food became a life-changing encounter with the gospel. Through a myriad of positive opportunities, Jervie began rebuilding his life step by step. 

In this powerful conversation, Jervie shares how God redeemed seasons of poverty and loss to shape his calling. From catching up on years of missed schooling to becoming a working student and eventually serving in ministry leadership, Jervie's journey is a remarkable testimony that no part of our story is wasted in God's hands. 

Today, Jervie serves through the Kaibigan Ministry, helping support and empower others who are walking the same journey he once did. He also mentors emerging leaders globally through networks such as PEER Servants, encouraging a new generation to lead with humility, authenticity, and faith. 

Whether you're an emerging leader, ministry worker, or someone wondering how God might use your past, this conversation will encourage you to trust Him with every chapter of your story. 

See more about Typhoon Fung-wong here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typhoon_Fung-wong_(2025)#:~:text=Fung%2Dwong%20made%20landfall%20in,Bicol%20Region%20and%20Northern%20Luzon 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Jervie Magat is a ministry leader from the Philippines who serves with the Kaibigan Ministry, part of the Center for Community Transformation network. After experiencing homelessness as a child, Jervie encountered Christ through a feeding program that transformed the trajectory of his life. Today he serves in ministry leadership, helping support vulnerable communities and mentoring emerging leaders locally and globally through initiatives connected with PEER Servants. His life is a powerful testimony that God can redeem every broken chapter and use it to bring hope to others. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. 

He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 

https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: 

https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: 

https://messageglobal.org/