Waweru Kanene is a Kenyan-born youth pastor, currently, working at Eden Community Church in Auckland. Waweru is passionate about helping young people maximise their God-given abilities and reach their ultimate potential. 

When he was seven, Waweru became part of the child sponsorship programme run in Kenya by Tearfund’s partner Compassion International. This support enabled Waweru to attend school because now he had the uniform required to attend, and the school fees covered. Previously, it had been impossible for his family to scrape together the funds for either. During Compassion’s Saturday project meetings, Waweru also learned vital life skills to help him build a different future. 

Waweru says his participation in the Compassion programme opened doors for new experiences and opportunities that helped him believe that God had a greater plan for a Kenyan kid living in poverty. Through Compassion’s support, Waweru has seen his life transform.  

He has served as a youth pastor in Kenya, Liberia, Rwanda and now in New Zealand. Waweru uses his experience and unique background to encourage, inspire and motivate young people. He’s passionate about using life-teachable moments to help struggling young people.  

Waweru is married to Sally, and they are blessed with a 3-year-old daughter, Subira. Waweru loves poetry, dancing, motorbike adventures and listening to music.