The appliance of science on mission trip

Medical scientist Sharlom Chaitika is a member of Elim Telford and recently felt led to undertake a short-term mission to Eswatini in southern Africa. Stepping out of her comfort zone was not easy but it was certainly worthwhile.

As a scientist specialising in haematology and biochemistry, I’ve spent years using my skills in a hospital setting – but I’ve always felt there was something more God was calling me to do.

I felt called to go and serve, so I reached out to my church leadership, who directed me to the Elim missions department.

When I learned about the opportunity to volunteer in Eswatini with Challenge Ministries, I knew in my heart that this was God’s prompting to step out in faith.

Last August, I travelled to the rural town of Bulembu in Eswatini. Travelling alone felt daunting at times, but from the moment I arrived I was overwhelmed by the warmth of the Challenge Ministries team.

Their dedication to transforming the lives of the people of Eswatini was inspiring, and I quickly realised that this trip was about far more than sharing my scientific knowledge – it would demonstrate God’s love in practical ways.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my time in Bulembu was engaging with the schoolchildren and encouraging them to dream big.

Through interactive food testing activities, I introduced them to concepts in science and healthcare that demonstrated scientific principles in an accessible way.

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