Meet Kevin Ward: Uniting Leaders in Eswatini

In the heart of Southern Africa lies the Kingdom of Eswatini, home to Kevin Michael Millan Ward, a leader whose unwavering faith and vision are shaping the nation. Together with his wife, Helen, and their children, Kevin has dedicated his life to inspiring change, empowering leaders, and bringing hope to those in need through faith-based initiatives.

From Business to Ministry
Kevin’s journey into ministry began in an unlikely place—a non-religious family and a career in the hospitality industry. However, a calling to serve others inspired Kevin to transition from business to ministry, bringing his passion for leadership and his heart for marginalized communities.

“I’m passionate about reaching those society considers the least and seeing them empowered to grow into leaders and role models,” Kevin shares. This passion has been the driving force behind his work, leading to the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers, children’s homes for those impacted by HIV/AIDS, and the planting of 40 churches in Eswatini’s most underserved areas.

Empowering the Next Generation
Through their ministry, Kevin and his team care for over 1,300 orphaned and vulnerable children (OVC) in pre-schools, ensuring they are fed, nurtured, and prepared for school while also supporting their families. The impact has been profound, with many of these children growing into influential leaders, including professionals such as judges, lawyers, and businesspeople.

One of the ministry’s standout initiatives, Bubele Care, works tirelessly to reunite orphaned children with extended family members, offering them a safe and loving home environment.

“Changed people change people,” Kevin says, and his work is a testament to this philosophy.

GLS: A Catalyst for Hope and Unity
Kevin’s introduction to the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) came through Dr. Stan Tharp of CLC Dayton, who encouraged him to bring the Summit to Eswatini. Since hosting their first GLS in 2015, the impact has been extraordinary.

In 2023, after a challenging period for the nation, Kevin restructured the Summit to focus on reaching the top pastors of Eswatini. The results were transformative. “By the end of the day, many of us as pastors were at the altar, reflecting on our journey, praying for our nation, and supporting one another,” Kevin recalls.

This gathering sparked a wave of ongoing monthly meetings among pastors and leaders. By 2024, the GLS expanded to a two-day event, drawing captains of industry, civil servants, and top professionals. The impact continues to ripple across the nation, fostering unity among faith leaders, cultivating hope, and forming life groups where leaders meet to encourage and support one another.

“Our communities need leaders,” Kevin emphasizes. “Leaders who seek to understand the purpose of their work and are unafraid to challenge the status quo. We must believe that Eswatini can and will be a better place for all of us.”

A Legacy of Leadership
Kevin’s prayer for leaders worldwide reflects his deep commitment to serving others:

“Pray for courage to face challenges with integrity, to listen deeply to others, and to pursue a vision that brings meaningful change. True success is found in serving with humility and conviction.”

Guided by his favorite principle from Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”, Kevin continues to inspire and equip leaders to ignite positive change to Eswatini and beyond.