The Pregnancy Help Network (PHN) annual conference, bringing together affiliated Pregnancy Help Organisations (PHOs), took place last week and once again proved to be a powerful time of equipping, connection and encouragement. This annual gathering unites pregnancy help ministry teams across Southern Africa. This year was especially significant as we celebrated 25 years of Pregnancy Help Network - 25 years of serving, equipping and strengthening pregnancy help ministries as they make a difference in the lives of women, men, children and families.
Our 25th birthday celebration was a special opportunity to reflect on the journey that has brought us to this milestone. We honoured some of the founding members whose vision, commitment and faith helped lay the foundation for the work we continue today with a special award. Their dedication has played an important role in shaping the Network and creating a platform through which pregnancy help organisations can connect, grow and serve more effectively.
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As we looked back over the years, we celebrated the milestones reached, the lives touched and the growth of our network across the region. We also recognised the invaluable collaborations and partnerships that have strengthened our work along the way. Through shared vision, mutual support and a commitment to life-affirming ministry, these relationships have helped extend our reach, build capacity and equip organisations to serve their communities with greater confidence and compassion.
While honouring those who helped shape our beginnings, we also looked ahead with gratitude and expectation. It was not only a celebration of how far we have come, but a reminder that there is still much to be done. We are grateful for every affiliate, partner, volunteer, board member and supporter who has contributed to the Network’s story.
United in our calling
Delegates from South Africa, Zimbabwe and Eswatini gathered to celebrate their shared calling to life-affirming ministry. Over two and a half days, attendees participated in heartfelt praise and worship, intentional prayer, impactful keynote sessions, shared meals, meaningful networking and interactive workshops. Every part of the programme was designed to equip, encourage and empower leaders for the season ahead.
The theme: CALLED TO…
This year’s theme reminded us that our calling does not depend on our own strength. God equips us for the conversations we have yet to have, the lives we have yet to touch and the challenges we have yet to face. As we continue serving in pregnancy help ministry, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that He is faithful to guide, strengthen and sustain us.
Tweet This: Our calling does not depend on our strength. God equips us for the conversations we have, the lives we touch, and the challenges we face.
The impact: In the words of delegates
The heart of the conference was perhaps best expressed by those who attended and shared their experiences:
“On behalf of our pregnancy organisation, and from my own heart, a very special thank you for your generosity, leadership and care.
Thank you for going the extra mile to ensure that we could attend the conference in such encouraging numbers. PHN’s generosity made it possible for more members of our team to attend, and we deeply appreciate this investment in our team.
Thank you for organising such a powerful and inspiring conference. You created an opportunity for volunteers and board members to be equipped, encouraged and spiritually refreshed. We left with renewed purpose and a deeper understanding of why we do what we do - and why every life matters.
Thank you for PHN’s exceptional leadership, guidance, vision, compassion and faith. This willingness to serve and strengthen others reaches far beyond the conference—it touches the communities we all return to serve.”
“The conference showed me how we can make a difference in our clients’ lives and circumstances. We were truly equipped, empowered and reminded of our calling to continue making a difference through pregnancy help ministry.”
Called to make a difference
As delegates return to their home countries, organisations and communities, they do so with renewed vision, strengthened faith and a deeper sense of purpose.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, we remain grateful for the journey behind us, encouraged by the partnerships that sustain us today, and expectant about what lies ahead. Together, we look forward to continuing to equip and strengthen pregnancy help organisations across Southern Africa, trusting God to guide us in the years to come.
With Him, we move forward in faith, knowing that our calling is greater than our own strength and that, in His hands, we truly serve without limits.
Editor's note: This article was published by Pregnancy Help Network South Africa/Africa Cares for Life and is reprinted with permission.
