Where the first and third worlds collide
South Africa ranks amongst the most “unequal” countries in the world. Reversal of this inequality won’t happen over night; nor should it. To overcome poverty, nations are built up with a framework of good governance, the rule of law and beneficial public policy.
Lasting change once the framework is in place will come through private enterprise, sustainable development, education, empowerment and spiritual transformation. The Paradigm Shift program focuses on the last five of these. By changing lives both physically and spiritually, we envision South Africa taking leaps forward.
In 2009-2010, South Africa was chosen as the country for the Paradigm Shift Pilot Program. The decision to start in South Africa was strategic and included factors such as the dual economies, English-speaking, strong local partners ready to implement and replicate the model, proximity to the poor, lack or urban microfinance, severe unemployment and an educated middle class who desires to be a part of the solution.
The success of the pilot was achieved by creating an effective and replicable model of the Paradigm Shift program that could be utilized by churches and community organizations across South Africa and beyond.
2011 and beyond holds incredible promise as more and more participating churches and community organizations from around South Africa are joining in.
Get your church/organization involved!
