Into Africa

Equipped by an Art Foundation degree and a one year HND in black and silver smithery, Mark Hopper decided to forge a future in Kenya.

"I saw all my friends enjoying life and having a great time. I really wanted to do something for other people," explained Mark.

Through friends at St George's church Mark contacted James Awayo in Yala, Kenya. "I packed up my blacksmith's tools and set off. When I arrived I could see that there was a lot of potential and the people were hungry for knowledge," he said.

Mark decided to build a workshop and somewhere to live. When finished he will use the workshop for metalwork classes. "It feels strange teaching a skill that was wiped out by the first white men who came to Kenya. I enjoy seeing how God provides all the materials we need. That's one of the main difference in cultures. In Kenya people expect to see God act in practical ways. He's not so much of a concept - more of a reality."

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