From Fear to Influence: How the Global Leadership Summit Transformed Rev. Grace Bukachi’s Leadership Journey

From Fear to Influence: How the Global Leadership Summit Transformed Rev. Grace Bukachi’s Leadership Journey

Rev. Grace N. Bukachi is a leader whose journey is deeply rooted in faith, service, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need. Her life and leadership were profoundly impacted by the Global Leadership Summit (GLS), which equipped her with the confidence, tools, and inspiration to step into spaces she once feared. Today, as an ordained minister serving in Christ is the Answer Ministries (CITAM) in Nairobi, Kenya, she leads with conviction, impacting countless lives through chaplaincy, mentorship, and community transformation.

Answering the Call: From Teacher to Faith-Based Leader

Originally trained as a professional Music and English teacher, Grace’s life took a transformative turn when she answered God’s call to ministry nearly 22 years ago. Since then, she has served in multiple leadership roles, including Music Director, Coordinator for Family Care and Enrichment Ministries, and Women’s Ministry Pastor. Over the past three years, she has taken on the role of heading the Chaplaincy Department, extending her reach beyond the church walls to serve police officers, prison officers, teachers, students, and healthcare professionals.

Bringing Hope to the Overlooked Through Prison Ministry

One of Grace’s most impactful ministries is her work in prison ministry and police chaplaincy, a calling that has grown over the past 15 years. Often overlooked and misunderstood, these officers serve in demanding environments, and Grace has made it her mission to bring care, mentorship, and spiritual guidance to them. Through leadership training, counseling, and peer mentorship, she has built bridges of trust, creating safe spaces where officers can express themselves, ask questions, and grow personally and professionally.

She recalls the initial skepticism she faced when first engaging with officers: “At first, they were suspicious—wondering what I wanted from them. But I was simply there to add value, to tell them they are seen and valued.” Over time, her consistency and genuine care have led to transformative relationships, with officers embracing servant leadership principles and finding encouragement in their roles.

The Global Leadership Summit: A Defining Moment in Leadership Development

Grace’s journey with the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) began in 2007 at Nairobi Baptist Church. Encouraged by her senior pastor to attend, she quickly became captivated by its vision of equipping leaders for greater impact. Over the years, her role evolved from an attendee to an integral part of the planning team in Nairobi, where she oversees worship sessions and facilitates leadership discussions.

The lessons from GLS have profoundly shaped her approach to faith-based leadership. One speaker who left a lasting impression on her was Carla Harris. “Carla Harris lit up the room for me. She’s a singer, a banker, a leader. And I thought—I’m Grace. I sing. I teach. I pastor. I mentor. I can bring all these elements of grace into my leadership.” This realization fueled her confidence to embrace every aspect of her calling and use her unique gifts to make a difference.

Empowering the Next Generation Through Leadership Training

One of the most remarkable highlights of Grace’s ministry is her work with young police officers. At a recent capacity-building seminar, she engaged with over 400 officers, many of whom were in their early twenties. When she asked them what led them to join the force, many admitted it was out of necessity rather than passion. Grace saw this as an opportunity to instill a sense of purpose and Christian leadership in them, encouraging them to see their role as a platform for positive change in society.

Her commitment to leadership development has also led to an increasing presence of police officers at GLS events. In the past year alone, 500 officers attended the summit, gaining exposure to world-class leadership training content that equips them to serve with integrity and excellence.

Overcoming Fear Through GLS: A Personal Transformation

Reflecting on her leadership journey, Grace acknowledges that she once struggled with fear. But through the teachings of GLS and the power of faith-based leadership, she has stepped boldly into spaces that once felt intimidating. “Grace, before GLS, was a very fearful person. But through God’s power, I’ve learned to step into places I never thought I would go.”

A Prayer for Leaders Around the World

As a passionate advocate for Christian leadership, Grace prays that every leader in the GLS family remains Christ-centered and committed to serving with love and compassion. “May God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit always be exalted and remain the core of the leadership journeys we take. May we reach out with the love of God, the compassion of Jesus, and the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.”

Leaving a Legacy of Leadership and Community Impact

Rev. Grace N. Bukachi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of faith-based leadership, mentorship and discipleship, and the willingness to step into the unknown. Through her unwavering dedication to prison ministry, church leadership, and community impact, she continues to inspire future leaders, leaving a legacy that will shape generations to come.