Frontiers is developing an innovative training strategy for new arrivals in regional ‘Equipping Hubs.’ The goal is to better prepare new candidates to make disciples among the least reached peoples and places in the Muslim world.

Rachel, who co-leads our North African Hub with her husband, Zach, told us, "In the past, new workers went straight to their teams. Their leaders juggled their own work, ministry, and family while helping new workers land, learn language, and live well. This was often a tremendous challenge."

Since 2020, Frontiers has established fifteen hubs across our eight strategic regions. New field workers spend 12-24 months at hubs, learning to be effective in pursuing their calling to Muslims. They are a powerful stepping stone into effective, long-term ministry, establishing solid foundations of local language, cultural insight and practical skills.

"The Hub provides a supportive framework where workers land and learn what it takes to thrive, in a much more intentional way than before," Zach shared. "Strands of language, culture, team, ministry, leadership, and spiritual disciplines weave together through weekly team meetings, book discussions and fellowship times. Focused weekend trainings go deeper into topics such as peace-making, thriving in hard places and story-telling."

Learning to speak like a local is a big part of the training. Our workers learn from native speakers through daily activities and conversations, mirroring how children acquire their first language. But it’s not just about words and grammar. They discover why local Muslims think and act the way they do, helping build deeper connections with local people.

Chris and Emily, sent recently from the UK, told us, "Being in the hub took the stress out of the early decisions and practical difficulties new arrivals often face. Wonderfully, we had our own apartment by day two! We live near the language school and all the local street sellers give us lots of opportunity to practice Arabic."

Emily added, "The team was a great space to process our culture shock, and we were given the tools to healthily manage the rollercoaster of emotions that you can experience. We had several people that were on call to help us if needed (and we did!)”

Throughout the year, trainees practice what they learn in real life situations. Whether they’re shopping at the local market or picking up children from school, they actively look for ways to bless, pray for, and share the Good News with the local Muslims they meet.

Chris shared, "We’re confused about why everyone doesn’t go through a hub. It’s designed to help you with all the things that are difficult in the first year on the field. Our hub leaders have 18+ years of experience and an incredible wealth of knowledge to share. They have helped us to avoid common mistakes, to increase our chances of longevity on the field and help us be as effective as possible from the beginning."

When they finish the program, these newly-trained workers either join existing teams or lead new projects in areas that need help.

Fully Equipped to Serve

Ambition into Action