Daniel Okwara

As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the serendipitous encounter that changed the course of my life.  In 2013, I met Mandi Johnson while serving as her translator at an event. Little did I know that this chance meeting was the beginning of a divine connection that would lead to the birth of Akote Edeke Ministries (AEM). Over the next two years, I would meet her husband Jeremy and as our friendship grew we began to sense that God was preparing us for something new.

I am a devoted husband to my wonderful wife Grace and a proud father to our three children: Mandisa Naomi Aigo (first born), Felix Okwara (2nd born), and Grace Daniel Asao (3rd born).

In 2015, AEM was founded while I was still a full-time high school fine art teacher dedicated to my work and my role as the patron of the Scripture Union Club. However, in 2020 God called me to leave teaching and pursue full-time ministry.  It was a difficult decision, but I knew it was the right one.  With the support of my wife Grace, I stepped out in faith, trusting that God’s plan was greater than my own.

The journey has not been without its challenges, but through the ups and down, I have learned valuable lessons and grown as a leader.  AEM has become a testament to God’s faithfulness and I am humbled to see how far we have come.  Our ministry has impacted lives and I am confident that God’s will is at the center of it all.

As I look back, I am reminded that our journey began with a simple act of translation, blossomed into friendship and evolved into a family-like bond. I am grateful for the Johnsons’ partnership and the unwavering support of my wife Grace.  Our story is a testament to the power of obedience and trust in God’s plan.  Indeed, where this is a will, there is a way and I am excited to see what the future holds for AEM.