Swineford, Leah

Leah Swineford is a Global Missionary of The United Methodist Church, serving as teacher for Deaf and hard of hearing schoolchildren at Nyadire Mission Center in Zimbabwe.

A layperson, Leah earned a diploma/certificate at the Deaf Ministries Training Center. She is a member of Bakerstown United Methodist Church, Gibsonia, Pennsylvania, related to the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference.

Leah is excited about using her education and gifts at Nyadire Mission Center, where about 30 elementary-level students require sign language to communicate. Most are aged 5 to 11 years, but some may be older due to starting their education later, the lack of a specialist teacher or school, or, in some cases, learning difficulties.

In her new role, Leah will teach children to read and write using sign language and other related materials, empower learners through training in psychosocial and vocational skills such as tailoring and information technology, and advise and assist school administrators on all issues concerning these vulnerable learners. She also will train local community members to use sign language, both those who are Deaf or hard of hearing and those who can hear; report to parents, mission station leaders, funding partners and all relevant authorities regarding students’ academic progress; and counsel and provide career guidance to learners before they attain high school or tertiary education.

Mission, Leah believes, “is a command given to all who follow Jesus. We are called to make disciples; to share his gospel in our home, in neighboring areas and in all the world. It may look different for different people, but as long as there are people who have never heard the name of Jesus, there is still a need for missions.”