Students Award Gary Skinner

22 October 2010

Watoto Founder and Ministry Team Leader, Reverend Gary M. Skinner has been recognised by Ugandan university students for his selfless service to vulnerable children and other individuals as well as providing strong and magnetic leadership to young people.

The immaculate ceremony that took place over the weekend at Uganda Christian University, Mukono is an initiative of university students designed to recognise exemplary leadership in upholding integrity and fighting corruption in the country. Prior to the event, a survey covering various sectors of leadership was circulated among university students all over the country, from which Skinner won in the 'Religious' category.

The integrity award thus read: “Selflessly given all his time and energy for disadvantaged children; honest and trustworthy; trains others in leadership, is a servant leader; humble and simple, and gives priority to the Watoto ministry team.”

Receiving the award on behalf of his father, James Robert Skinner acknowledged his mother’s role, Mrs Marilyn Skinner in contributing to Gary Skinner’s success. “Together, they have devoted their lives to this country,” he said.

“It is an honour to receive an award from a group of people – young people - who have accepted you and appreciate your contribution in impacting their lives. Many of them look up to my father’s leadership and desire to emulate his character.”

Gary and Marilyn Skinner came to Uganda in 1984 as Canadian missionaries. Together, they set up an English-speaking church in Kampala that has since grown to become an effective, faith-based solution to war, disease and poverty in Uganda and the rest of the world. With a current membership of more than 18,000 and an unwavering commitment to bring healing to the city and the nation, the church’s vision has led to the birth of numerous ministries and programmes that have improved communities.

These include among others ministry to children, youth, men, women and seed projects in the heart of the community – for the community and with the community. These ministries are life-giving, focused on transformation and always with the greater good of the city and nation in mind.

In 2009, Watoto 360°, an intense discipleship programme opened its doors to young people with passion for Christ-centred community development. Write to watoto360@watoto.com for more information.