Dirksen
Dirksen is the founder of Compassion Congo, an organization that seeks to restore hope by partnering with the local health care and medical community in eastern Congo to provide charitable surgical care and education.
The seminar consisted of students from a variety of majors, but all with a common interest in learning more about ministry in Africa. The focus of the seminar was teaching students how to adapt to other cultures and make the most of the resources available in every country.
Anna Luzader, a senior human development with business-emphasis major, said she attended the seminar to help maximize her current efforts in Africa.
“I am planning on moving to Africa and I am very involved in developing sustainable projects so anytime I get the chance to hear wisdom from an expert it is an honor,” said Luzader.
Dirksen and his wife, Zana, lived in D.R. Congo for 10 years. Since moving back to the states they have traveled there annually for 20 years helping to restore hope and provide medical care for the Congolese people.
Dirksen helped facilitate and network health care delivery in eastern D.R. Congo that included two hospitals, two nursing schools and 33 health clinics. Most importantly, from his perspective, he participated in the training of over 400 nurses and 100 doctors.
“Dr. Dirksen has really inspired us to equip and teach undeveloped countries how to sustain themselves with their own resources,” said Taylor Atchley, a junior anthropology major who attended the seminar.
Dirksen has a heart for the Congo and is eager to share his knowledge and passion every chance he gets. “If I could give these students one overarching piece of advice,” Dirksen said, “It would be to love God and love people.”
For more information about Compassion Congo, please visit www.compassioncongo.org.
