Student story: Shirley Powell

Not stopping at prison ministry, coaching, mentorship and international speaking, Shirley Powell has added studying with CMS for an undergraduate certificate with a focus on African Christianity.

HH: It’s been a privilege to meet you Shirley, and thank you for agreeing to be interviewed today. You’ve done so much! Yet, you remain a humble and godly woman. Firstly, could you tell me what drew you to CMS Pioneer Mission Training?

SP: A friend told me about CMS, and I started researching the courses available. I had previously completed some Christian studies, but I chose the Undergraduate Certificate in African Christianity to gain a deeper understanding of African history, culture, and Christianity, including the theological aspects. This is particularly relevant to the communities I serve through my projects. The modules on Mission and Evangelism, Introduction to Black Theology, and Global Pentecostalism are especially useful, as they will equip me to apply what I learn directly into practice in my pioneering work, including international mission projects in Uganda and prison ministry in the UK.

Can you tell us more about your work as a pastor and apostle?

I served as a pastor for 17 years and now serve as an Apostle at True Vine International Ministries (formerly True Vine Church). My current focus is pioneering ministry, which includes prison outreach, international mission work in Uganda, and supporting orphanage care projects.

I also mentor teachers and leaders in Uganda to support sustainable community development.

For example, one individual I’ve mentored for the past five years joined our church online during lockdown. Together, we developed a five-year plan to explore his goals and dreams. He’s an agricultural teacher and has since built the STEAM the Light ecosystem in Uganda, which launched on Ugandan TV in December. His project raises public awareness about using natural resources, recycling and sharing sustainable practices within the community, including:

• Nature-based farming
• Authentic education
• Entrepreneurship and cottage industries
• Ecosystem restoration and conservation. The STEAM the Light website is available for anyone interested in learning more or supporting the project.

I’m very proud of all his achievements.

Another leader I’ve supported is Ibrahim, who runs JIREH Children’s Ministry, caring for 30 children in an orphanage. Our ministry provides donations to cover medical care, school supplies, and food. Recently, we assisted with transportation costs for food donations sent by William’s organisation, connecting both leaders to strengthen community support.

Can you tell us more about your broader work and mentoring?

I also work as a health and lifestyle coach, though I’ve paused much of this work, initially due to health issues in the past but more recently to focus on my studies and prison ministry. Through Joseph Prison Ministry, we offer meet-and-greet services for prisoners on release, alongside mentoring and practical support. One ex-offender reached out after discovering us on social media and joined our team as a volunteer. He has shared his personal story and testimony in a recent podcast to encourage other prisoners transitioning out of prison. I was also interviewed on UCB2 radio last year, sharing my story and why I started the ministry project – links are available for anyone who wants to learn more.

Across all these initiatives, my focus is on leadership, teaching, and practical support. I aim to help individuals recognise their God-given gifts, providing tools and encouragement to make positive changes and apply what they learn to their own lives. I’m very proud of these achievements.

Can you share more about your speaking work?

I am an international speaker, often invited to both secular and Christian settings to share on topics including health, self-care, and mental well-being, drawing on biblical insight to guide others in caring for their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.

I also speak to young people considering starting their own businesses and becoming entrepreneurs. In 2020, during lockdown, I was invited as a guest on BBC Radio Suffolk to share my experience of starting a business later in life and provide practical advice for navigating transitions and adapting to change. I have also been invited by a radio presenter to speak on their show as a health expert.

More recently, I have paused some of this work to focus on my studies, family, and prison ministry.

In addition to speaking, my ministry responsibilities include:

• Visionary and pioneering: leading mission and ministry projects, including prison ministry and outreach initiatives to bring transformation and advance the kingdom of God.
• Life coaching and mentorship: supporting individuals in personal goals, career planning, and strategic thinking (e.g. helping a mentee plan NGO objectives for one, five and 10 years).
• Intercessory work: praying for leaders, the community, and strategic influence to bring positive change.
• Authority and leadership roles: collaborating with local churches across Ipswich and Suffolk to support pioneering ministry work and community engagement, ensuring alignment with God’s purpose.

Phew, Shirley, that sounds like a lot! How do you make yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually available for all this?

I take regular time to be still in God’s presence, allowing him to guide me. In those moments, I rest, recharge, and reflect, listening to his direction for each season of life. I follow his pattern to how I work. This helps me stay balanced and focused despite a busy schedule.

How have you found CMS Pioneer Mission Training course so far?

I’m really enjoying it. Visiting CMS headquarters last year and meeting you, Helen, some of the lecturers, and fellow students was a highlight. I love the African Christianity modules because they enable me to explore cultures through theological perspectives. The course allows me to apply the teaching directly to my context and reflect on my journey, connecting where I started with where I am now.

How can we pray for you?

I’ve faced a few health challenges and would appreciate prayers for strength and good health so I can complete the course successfully. I would also be grateful for prayers for my family, especially my mother, who has been unwell recently.

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