about us
We are on a relentless mission to build a pipeline of “Discipled Nation Builders” in Africa to transform their communities and countries spiritually, socially, and economically for generations to come.
about us
We are on a relentless mission to build up a pipeline of Discipled Nation Builders in Africa to transform their communities and countries spiritually, socially, and economically—now and for generations to come.
discipled nation builder
noun (n.)
Someone who knows and lives a Jesus-first life, puts others before themselves, and is in the relentless pursuit of living out their purpose, passion, and calling to make generational change.
Discipled Nation Builders in...
Discipled Nation Builders in...
Discipled Nation Builders in...
Discipled Nation Builders in...
our vision
A thriving Africa with Christ-centered leaders at every level.
our vision
A thriving Africa with Christ-centered leaders at every level.
our story
Our story began as a demonstration of stewardship and obedience to God. In 2004, God called our founder, Michael Radler, to serve and support the people of East Africa through his family foundation, the Radler Foundation. This quickly led to funding clean water, preventative health, and leadership programs through East African Ministries (now 4africa). From 2009 to 2018, we served and equipped communities in South Sudan and Uganda while demonstrating the love of Jesus and prioritizing operational excellence—while continually evaluating our best investment for these countries.
The work expanded and we grew. In 2018, we officially launched 4africa out of Mr. Radler’s foundation, and established it as a standalone 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. During this time, we began researching and asking ourselves, “Are we addressing the root causes of generational issues in Africa?” Our reflection time and 10+ years of experience revealed two insights that would forever change our approach: there is a leadership crisis in Africa, and very few are addressing this at scale.
In response, we realized we were too focused on providing band-aid solutions to generational problems. In 2023, after serving over 500,000+ people through water and health programs, we decided to transition out of this work to solely focus on investing and building a pipeline of future leaders in Africa who will, one day, solve the water and health crises, along with countless other issues hindering Africa from flourishing.
Today, our leadership academy has expanded into a comprehensive 10-year program and is recognized as one of the top A-Level education programs in East Africa. As we continue to see the Lord’s hand guide our work, we are committed to seeing a thriving Africa.
2005 / 2006
Our founder responding to God’s call, begins granting to Christian programs in South Sudan
2010 / 2011
EAM charged with researching what and how best way to make impact in South Sudan through education
2012
Leadership Program business plan approved, construction starts in Nimule, South Sudan
2009
East African Ministries (EAM) launched — 1st well drilled in South Sudan
2013
Civil War breaks out in South Sudan, affirming theory to focus on developing leaders
2014
Leadership Academy of South Sudan (LASS) opens — 32 students
2015
December — 1st LASS class graduation
2016
Leadership Alumni Program approved, 90% of 1st class enrolled in University or higher education
2018
EAM rebranded, launched as standalone, public charity, 4africa
2019
First LASS alumni graduating university
2023
400+ active participants across various stages of program. LASS has highest test scores in school’s history, including 5 perfect scores
our values
Christ’s passion for his people drives our purpose. We strive to put God first, closely followed by His love for His people. To honor God, we respect one another and believe everyone genuinely does their best. We openly celebrate others and humbly accept their appreciation in return. We’re constantly growing in faith, caring for the cause, and viewing our work as fulfilling God’s purpose—to love God and love people.
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as Christ God forgave you.”
-Ephesians 4:32
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
-1 Thessalonians 5:11
We use the resources given to us (time, talents, and treasures) freely, wisely, and honestly. Good stewardship requires us to exercise wise leadership, make effective decisions across the organization, and work effectively with like-minded individuals, churches, and organizations to maximize our strength and have a collective impact with limited resources.
“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.”
-1 Corinthians 4:1-2
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
1 Peter 4:10
We achieve proven results by staying teachable and coachable. Our mission is Christ-centered, not driven by ego or selfish ambitions—always attributing our success to God. We accept growth opportunities with grace.
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
Philippians 2:3 (NIV)
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him.”
-Jeremiah 17:7
We always put our best work forward, honoring the Lord before all else. We’re committed to pursuing our mission effectively and efficiently—continuously building our professionalism, maintaining high-quality standards, and consistently following through to ensure we complete work well. We are accountable and proud of the work we put forwards.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”
-Colossians 3:24-25
We’re not afraid to dive deep and solve problems, always asking “why” or “how”. We do not accept mediocrity and never give up. Our work and service to others is never finished. We continually seek ways to serve better.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
-Galatians 6:9
our africa team
Innocent Owani
Senior VP, Africa Operations and Programs
Sheila Kasemire
Africa Operations Officer
Ivan Kubulwa
Finance Manager
George Lukwago
Operations Manager
David Mugenyi
Leadership Development Program Manager
Norah Okot
Human Resource Manager
Nelly Achola
Stage 2 Manager
Ronnie Angiro
Communication & Technology Manager
Gama Richard
Senior Salesforce Administrator
Peter Manyang
Head Teacher at the Leadership Academy of South Sudan
Duncan Akatukwasa
Director of Studies
Alex Marsuk
LASS Compound Administrator
Harriet Kolo
Head Pastoral/Senior
Woman Teacher
Monge Henry
Head of Department, Arts
Byesigirwoha Kenneth
Head of Department, Science
Ebong Michael
Business Coach & ICT Teacher
our u.s. team
Alex Radler
President
Chris Talcott
Chief Operating Officer
Gail Andrae-Pianta
Sr VP, Administration & CFO
Sara Banks
Senior VP, Strategy, Program Impact & Communications
Patience Ankunda
Technical Program Manager
Richard Kirenga
Relationship Manager
Annie Eber
Marketing & Communications Project Manager
Aisha Amegindra
Development Associate
Kennedy Carr
Graphic Designer
Cathy Meadors
Human Resources Generalist