Ever since we returned from the Team Leader Training in Cuba, one sentence has stayed with me – spoken by a participant in the middle of the week. There I met leaders with unwavering hearts for Christ, despite all the challenges they live with. Their passion was big, and their drive to make a difference was inspiring.
Before leaving Romania, I knew very little about Cuba. We did not know what to expect. Everything became an adventure: the flat tyre on the way from Havana to Santa Clara, the frequent power cuts during the course, the distinctive Cuban food.
“Sí, se puede. – Yes, it can be done.”
a participant of the Team Leader Training, Cuba
The main goal of the course was to learn how to work as a team. What surprised me most was how quickly the participants applied what we taught. Every day I saw them grow – eager to learn and fearless in asking questions. Even the low ropes course, a completely new concept for many, they mastered remarkably fast.
Cultural differences were obvious – but they never became a barrier. In the first lesson, many participants were talking among themselves while we were teaching. Through open words and mutual understanding we quickly found our way together. It was a beautiful reminder: when hearts are open, there is always a way to bridge gaps.
I often saw God's protection and care during those days. The power cuts almost always happened during the day, when we did not need electricity. Only on the first evening did the power go out while we were watching a film – and even then we simply carried on. Despite the demanding climate, the team had almost no health problems.
My biggest personal challenge was the language. Teaching in Spanish cost me a lot. But the participants' helpfulness and their eagerness to understand made all the difference. Their kindness and teamwork were a true blessing.
What moved me most was what the course triggered in the participants. Many shared how valuable the week was – and how they now want to take what they learned back to their ministries and pass it on. Multiplication made concrete: a ripple effect of transformation.
In the end, we witnessed something wonderful: despite scarce resources, the ministry in Cuba is thriving. That is only possible because it is God's work – carried by people who love him and are devoted to serving others.
