2014
In 2014, Ronny and Debbie Maxey invited newlyweds DeeJay and Bre’Ana Whiting to join them on a mission trip to Zambia with Jericho Roads ministry. Together, they provided school supplies, trained teachers, and supported local pastors. Earlier that year, Debbie had taken her first trip to Zambia and felt so moved by the experience that she wanted to return and wanted DeeJay and Bre to experience it too. The trip was especially meaningful because Debbie had once served as DeeJay’s high school principal at Tatum High School in Tatum, Texas, making the journey not only impactful but also deeply personal.
2018
In 2018, the Whitings hosted a Christmas concert and raised over $3,000 for three mission projects, including sending funds to Zambia that provided shoes and uniforms for over 100 students along with additional school supplies. Over time, proceeds from their music streaming helped establish a feeding program in Zambian village schools. In the years following their first trip, both Debbie and DeeJay continued supporting the children in Zambia individually, each finding ways to stay connected and provide ongoing help where it was needed most.
2019
From 2019 to 2020, the Whitings and Maxeys remained committed to caring for vulnerable children in Zambia. Partnering closely with local leaders Godrick Mwanza and Moses Banda, they helped provide consistent meals and essential school supplies to children in Petauke, Zambia. Even from across the globe, their support ensured that students had the nourishment and resources needed to stay in school and thrive. This ongoing effort laid the foundation for deeper relationships and future ministry opportunities that would grow in the years ahead.
2021
In 2021, DeeJay and Debbie returned to Zambia, this time bringing along Beth Thacker, Debbie’s longtime friend. During their time there, Beth introduced the idea of launching a sewing program to equip Zambian children with valuable life skills. The team also visited Kamwala and Chifundo schools, where they were heartbroken to see students learning in roofless classrooms and sitting on bricks.That trip became the spark that led to the birth of Godlink—officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the U.S. and registered as an NGO in Zambia. Godlink soon established its mission: to build a better future for Zambian children by providing food, water, shelter, and the opportunity to an excellent education.
2022
In 2022, Godlink began leading mission teams from the USA to Zambia twice a year. During these trips, the team also started building stronger partnerships in Petauke by meeting with local leaders, including area chiefs, the mayor, and the District Education Board Secretary, all with the goal of deepening community collaboration and expanding impact.
2023
In 2023, Godlink continued expanding its efforts to serve children in Zambia, including providing first aid kits to schools with the help of U.S. medics Richard Berry and DD Johnson. That same year, a deep friendship formed between Destanie Perrodin and Deborah Mweyama, one that would lead to an incredible development in 2024.
2024
During the first trip to Zambia in 2024, Destanie Perrodin made the bold decision to remain in Petauke and serve as a missionary. Her faith-filled step surprised the team and deeply moved Deborah Mweyama, a Zambian nurse from Livingstone, who chose to join Destanie in Petauke as a fellow missionary. Together, they served the community faithfully, with Deborah using her nursing skills to provide free medical care to students and families. Destanie remained in Zambia from May 26 to October 5. Her commitment inspired Deborah to stay in Petauke, officially join the Godlink team, and invite fellow nurse Cecilia Mweetwa, who also came on board to serve alongside her.
2025
This year, Godlink has continued to grow in meaningful ways. From June 20 to 30, a team led by Daylon McCoy made a significant impact as nine orphans received care and support, and the trip also provided additional resources, training, and encouragement to the three schools supported by Godlink. Godlink also purchased 20 acres of land with the vision of one day building a school for students in grades 8 through 12. On June 3, DeeJay and Bre’Ana made the life-changing decision to move their family of six to Zambia. They are now in the process of relocating, stepping out in faith to lead Godlink and continue their mission of building a better future for Zambian children.
