Marlene Botha

Marlene was born and raised in South Africa. In 1993 her life changed dramatically when she fractured four vertebrae in her neck and found herself paralysed from the neck downward.

“God gave me a second chance in life, and I chose to use it well in His service. By God's grace, I can walk again.”

In August 1997, Marlene came to the UK for a month-long holiday, but she fell in love with the people of London and decided to stay a bit longer. She began to volunteer and soon began working for LCM as a missionary. Now almost 22 years later, the UK is now home.

Marlene works in Tower Hamlets, where she helps churches to build bridges into the communities around them. She specialises sharing the good news with families with children and young people. especially those living on council estates, from unchurched communities, and other faith backgrounds

Marlene shares, “I’m very passionate about those kids that are normally excluded or in communities where drug abuse and crime is the norm.”

Marlene partners with churches to encourage and equip everyday Christians to boldly share the love and truth of Jesus in their community.

Tower Hamlets is a diverse borough with a large Bangladeshi Muslim community. It is also the most deprived borough in London – with 25% of people living in income deprivation. The rate of child poverty is at a sobering 51%.

“I’m passionate about reaching the least-reached communities of London, especially the children and young people. I want them to experience the freedom, love, and hope that Christ can give them. And not just the children, but the parents and the extended family. I believe in household salvation.”

Outside of work, Marlene is passionate about nurturing and creating friendships with loved ones, or in her words “Everyone she meets.”

“Whether its board games or travelling, coffee or tea, I am content in the presence of my friends, young and old."