Until July 2022 Derek and Nerina worked at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) and the University Hospital in Uganda. Nerina was a lecturer and researcher in MUST’s Biochemistry department and Derek worked in the hospital’s Accident & Emergency department, teaching students and helping to improve the work of the Department.

They were invited to go to Mbarara University and Hospital in 2012 as improvements in health and education there were needed. However, giving physical help and knowledge is not sufficient. They were part of an AIM team which centred on ‘transformational development’ – the change in behaviour that the gospel brings. They worked with students, particularly helping with discipleship, Bible study, and teaching them how to be Christian professionals. They prayed that through their ministry students would be better equipped to be Christian leaders and church planters.