Kenya Marketplace Summit by David Balestri

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David Balestri, ICAL member based in Australia, recently spoke at a marketplace summit in Kenya. He reports:

What an incredible privilege it was to speak tonight with Christian marketplace leaders across Kenya. So encouraged to share a message that has become one of my greatest passions: the integration of Kingdom faith and marketplace leadership.

For too long, many believers have assumed that "real ministry" only happens inside the four walls of the church. Yet the vast majority of the Church spends most of its life in businesses, workplaces, schools, hospitals, government, and communities.

The marketplace is not a distraction from ministry—it is one of God's primary mission fields.

Tonight we explored:

  • Building businesses as an act of Kingdom stewardship.

  • Hearing God's voice in everyday business decisions.

  • Leading with wisdom, discernment, and excellence.

  • The difference between Kingdom economics and the world's systems.

  • Why Christian business leaders are called to bring transformation wherever God has placed them.

I also had the opportunity to share the work we're doing through the HopeUC Centre of Excellence, along with our annual Marketplace Summits that are equipping Christian entrepreneurs and leaders to hear God's voice, build thriving organisations, and become effective ambassadors of Christ in every sphere of society. I'm excited to see what God continues to do through the marketplace across Kenya and beyond. When the righteous lead with wisdom, integrity, and the power of the Holy Spirit, entire communities can flourish.

God may have given you the vision... but have you developed the capacity?

Over the last decade, I've had countless Christians tell me they believe God is leading them out of employment and into business. Usually, they're excited to tell me about their product, service, or big idea. But when I ask, "What have you done to learn how to become an entrepreneur?" I often get a blank look.

Here's what I've learned after almost 40 years as an entrepreneur:

The greatest threat to your business isn't a bad idea—it's an underdeveloped business owner.

Most people wouldn't dream of becoming a doctor after watching a few YouTube videos, buying a stethoscope, and walking into an operating theatre. Yet every year, thousands of people register a business name, build a website, print some business cards, and expect success to magically appear.

For Christians, there's another misconception: Prayer alone isn't a business strategy.

Absolutely seek God. Dedicate your business to Him. Listen for His voice.

But genuine faith always produces wise, skilful action.

The Book of Proverbs constantly reminds us that wisdom, understanding, diligence and excellence are part of God's way.

That's why, over 15 years ago, we established the HopeUC Centre of Excellence—to equip believers who sense a genuine call to the marketplace.

Today it's an on-demand online platform used by Christians around the world and by churches looking to disciple marketplace leaders.

Our Kingdom Business Course includes:

36 practical, 15-minute video sessions

Downloadable PDF notes for every lesson

Biblical principles integrated with real-world business experience

Practical training relevant across almost every industry

If you're sensing God leading you into business—or you simply want to become a more effective marketplace leader—this is a great place to start.

You can preview a couple of sessions free here: https://www.hopeuccoe.com/course/kbc2021trial

God doesn't just call people into business. He also prepares them for it. Don't neglect the preparation. It may be one of the greatest investments you ever make.

 2026, David Balestri