We are passionate about seeing workers thrive, not merely survive on the field. As Head of Global Mentoring, we not only mentor and coach global workers across Asia for long-term Gospel impact, but we also oversee a team to provide mentoring and coaching for global workers from the time of their appointment through their career with WorldVenture.
While we both began following Jesus at a young age, our journeys were quite different. Brian’s strong supportive home and input from mentors in his teens gave him a strong footing. After leading a child to Jesus one summer in high school, he felt God calling him into vocational ministry which eventually led him to San Diego Christian College where he met Melanie in his final year.
Melanie grew up in a broken and dysfunctional family, but her Mom had a deep love for Jesus and prayed for Melanie faithfully. Melanie lost both of her parents at an early age and that combined with her difficult family situation gave her a heart for those dealing with pain and trauma.
We have spent more than 30 years in missions and ministry including cross-cultural ministry, living in both Australia and New Zealand, mobilizing and equipping the church for cross-cultural ministry as well as serving ten years in local church ministry. We believe our extensive mission and ministry experience has prepared us for this season of equipping and coaching the next generation of global workers.
We have three adult children, one cat and two grand-dogs. We love being in the outdoors; walking, biking and kayaking, hanging out with friends, playing Settlers of Catan and watching New Zealand All Blacks Rugby!
Facebook: @starksonmission
Instagram: @starksonmission
Blogs on WorldVenture.com:
* Pathfinders: Reflections
* The Apostle Andrew Shares His Struggles To Supporters
