Donna Werner’s journey into international ministry began with what seemed like a chance encounter — but one she believes was divinely inspired. From meeting a Kenyan educator at a conference in Toronto to founding Dorcas Destiny International, her mission has been to uplift children and families living in extreme poverty in Kenya. Today, she continues to bridge cultures with compassion, resilience, and faith, creating ripples of hope that inspire many in our 5M+ Humans of Fuzia community.
Q: What sparked your journey into ministry and service in Kenya?
Donna: It all began when I attended a conference in Toronto and met a gentleman from Kenya who had started a school in his village. He asked me a simple question: “Would you help me with the school?” My immediate answer was yes — because I’ve always believed in helping where I can. That single moment set me on a path I now see as divinely orchestrated. Soon after, I connected with others in Kenya, began small projects like sending shoeboxes of supplies, and eventually traveled there myself. What I saw — the reality of poverty beyond what tourists usually encounter — changed my life. I knew I had to act.
Q: What were some of the challenges you faced starting a nonprofit across continents?
Donna: Founding a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S. and building a mission in Kenya came with many hurdles. People often asked why I was helping abroad when there were needs in America. My response has always been — I’ve worked with homeless communities in New York and Chicago, and while the struggles are real, the safety nets here are stronger. In Kenya, many don’t have food, shelter, or medical care as basic guarantees. The needs are simply more extreme, and I felt called to respond.
Q: What milestones or proud moments stand out in your journey?
Donna: One of my proudest moments is when people — even without knowing every detail — chose to support the mission simply because they saw my passion. Over the years, I’ve taken 16 trips to Kenya, always bringing others with me after that very first one. Each trip is a milestone. I’ve watched children grow over the last eight years, donors commit monthly, and communities change before my eyes. The trust people place in me — whether donors or team members — is an honor I don’t take lightly.
Q: How do you view women in leadership today?
Donna: Women have a unique ability to “make it happen.” We don’t always have the luxury of waiting for perfect conditions — we find a way, often with little. As leaders, women carry a responsibility because people are always watching, whether we realize it or not. Leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about action and follow-through.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Donna: If something is in your heart, you must pursue it — even if no one goes with you at first. It’s your responsibility to act on it. Others may take time to see your commitment, but once they do, they’ll come alongside you. Don’t let fear or waiting on others delay you — keep moving forward, one step at a time.
Q: How do you personally define success?
Donna: Success is ending the day knowing I accomplished something. It doesn’t have to be a huge achievement; small steps matter. Too many people get stuck waiting. For me, progress — however small — is success.
Q: What kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
Donna: I want people to know that I care — truly care. I never wanted to just send money; I wanted to be present, to know the people, and for them to know me. When my team and I travel to Kenya, we live, eat, laugh, and cry together with the communities. That’s the legacy I want: being remembered as someone who valued genuine human connection.
“Whatever is in your heart to do — do it, even if no one else joins you at first. Keep moving forward, because someone is depending on you to follow through.” – Donna Werner
Connect with Donna Werner: dorcasdestinyintl.org
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