THRIVE
Students
Our Mission
ThriveStudents exists to help UMP students thrive spiritually, physically, emotionally, academically and personally while at university.
Our Vision
Our vision is to see men and women grow holistically in character and conviction and becomes leaders in our country.
Our Values
Jesus-Centred,
Biblically Shaped,
Relational,
Holistic,
Servant-hearted,
Inclusive
Become all you were created to be!
We are a Christian organization that seeks to serve the students of the University of Mpumalanga. Our goal is to see students thrive in all areas of life.
Our services
Helping Students Thrive!
Seminars and courses
We offer seminars and courses covering life skills, study skills, time and finance management skills, entrepreneurship, as well as on topics such as "Why Trust the Bible", Relationships, "The Bible as one Big Story" and many more.
Bible studies and Talks
We aim to equip students to know the Bible better, so that they can read it for themselves, learn what it means to follow Jesus in everyday life and ultimately are able to help others do the same.
Coaching and Counselling
As trained pastors and counsellors we have many years of counselling experience. We listen non-judgementally and seek to bring God's wisdom and counsel to the difficulties of life we all face.
Events and Excursions
Being a student is more than just studying (important as that is). We offer off-campus experiences, such as quarterly camps, Friday night get togethers, and excursions to the various attractions around us.
LOOK OUT FOR US ON CAMPUS
Who are we?
Paul Schoenfeld
Pastor in REACH South Africa
Paul studied mechanical engineering at Stellenbosch University. After obtaining his Master's Degree he worked for 3 years in the mining industry. He then spent two years at Wits doing student ministry. From there he went to Cape Town where he studied theology for 3 years. After graduating in 2005, Paul served as the pastor of The Message Church, a church close to the University of Cape Town. He moved to White River in January 2021 in order to be a blessing to the students and staff of the University of Mpumalanga. Paul is married to Lara and they have 3 boys. He is passionate about helping people come to know Jesus, loves hanging out with students, braai-ing and playing touchies with his boys.
Vinicius Bantim
Pastor in the Presbyterian Church of Brazil and missionary
Vinicius has a degree in Agribusiness Administration and Entrepreneurship. He was a professor of the administration course at UNIC (University of Cuiabá, Brazil), in the areas of marketing, human resource management, strategic planning and entrepreneurship. He then obtained his theology degree before serving as a pastor in Brazil. In 2018 he came to South Africa as a missionary with a specific focus on leadership training, theological education and missional biblical discipleship in South Africa and Mozambique. Vinicius is married to Elizabeth and they have one daughter. He loves talking, walking in nature, making new friends and visiting new places. He particularly appreciates his wife's cooking!
Support the work of ThriveStudents
Banking details:
Account holder: REACH STUDENTS UMP NPC
Account number: 1261063945
Account type: Current account
Bank name: Nedbank
Branch code: 198765
