Application Process

Ahh… you’re interested! Our staff team is a diverse group of Basotho and Americans, young and older, single and married and we’re always looking to add to our family.

A couple things up front

These are not paid positions. All missionary staff raise their own financial support for their personal living expenses during their time on the field as well as their initial moving costs. Sorry to just come out and say that, but we get that quesiton a lot so we’ve found it best to just put it out there.

Also, we require a minimum commitment of three years for all staff members. We are looking for staff missionaries who know God is calling them here and are willing to dedicate a few years of their lives to that call. Again, this can be a make or break with people so we want to be up front about this so we don’t waste anyone’s time.

I’m still interested, what next?

Step 1:

  1. Fill out our Staff Interest Form. It helps us get to know you a bit more and see the skills you have that you think might best fit in our ministry.

Step 2:

  1. You will receive an email upon receipt of your initial overview material, and another email upon processing of it.
  2. If it appears that there is a potential placement for you at Thrive Africa, you will receive an email providing you more information and requesting additional information from you, which will include:
    • An in-depth application form
    • References
    • A budget which outlines how much support you would be required to raise if a permanent placement is agreed upon
  3. Once the application is received, it will be reviewed and your references will be contacted.
  4. After your references are contacted, you will be notified regarding whether or not there is a placement available.
    • If a placement is not possible, you will be advised of this fact and given options concerning future possibilities or referrals to other ministries that might be more suitable to your needs, calling, and skill.
    • If a placement is possible, an interview via telephone or online-chat will be arranged.

Step 3:

  1. Once placement has been agreed on, the next step is for you to visit Thrive Africa on a scouting trip.
    • The typical time period for a scouting trip is two months, but this may be adjusted as needed.
    • This enables you to see and experience the country and ministry firsthand, and will better equip both parties to make the right choice regarding a permanent placement.
    • You will need to contribute financially to cover your meals, lodging, and transportation during your stay in South Africa (which Thrive Africa will facilitate for you).
  2. In preparation for your scouting trip, you will be sent a complete packet including:
    • Staff Handbook, which outlines the policies and guidelines for all Thrive Africa staff
    • Scouting Trip Preparation Guide which will inform you of everything you need to know before you arrive
    • Covenant Agreement, for you to sign and return
    • Staff Medical & Indemnity Forms, for you to complete and return

Step 4:

  1. During your scouting trip, you will be immersed into the ministry, functioning as full-time staff.
    • You will be given responsibilities in your desired area of ministry as well as other areas as needed.
  2. You will meet often with Thrive Africa leadership to discuss your transition, challenges, and adjustment to determine whether a long-term placement is suitable.
  3. Before your scouting trip ends, a discussion with leadership will be had to formally decide whether or not you will return as full-time staff.
    • If a placement is not possible, you will be advised of this fact and given options concerning future possibilities or referrals to other ministries that might be more suitable to your needs, calling, and skill.
    • If a placement is possible, the date of your return for your permanent placement will be discussed.

Step 5:

  1. Following your scouting trip, you will receive a complete packet including:
    • Missionary Staff Preparation Guide which will guide you through the process of returning for permanent placement
    • All the information and documentation you need to obtain the proper visa to return to South Africa, in accordance with the labor and immigration laws
    • Complete job description
    • Missionary Staff Placement Contract, for you to sign and return
  2. The immigration process should begin immediately and must be finalized before you return to the field.
  3. Establishing a covering and launching into fundraising should begin immediately. Financial support must be in place, as agreed, prior to your return to the field.