RENEE BREWER

Renee Brewer began flight training at the age of 15. While still in school, she heard about the mission of MAF and God planted a dream within her to become a MAF pilot. After 12 years of waiting, training and preparation, in February 2023 Renee’s dream became a reality.

After a long journey of preparation, how did it feel to finally arrive at your first international MAF base?

For many people who work for MAF, the journey usually isn’t quick – it’s not as simple as applying for a new job. The MAF team really care about your well-being and ensuring you are well-equipped for the adventure ahead, so the preparation before you go overseas is essential.

To finally arrive at the MAF base in Uganda was a great feeling. I was so excited to see the work of MAF in action and to get stuck in.

Tell us a bit about the training you have been doing so far.

I’ve just spent my first two months in Uganda, Africa learning how to fly the Cessna Caravan aircraft which I will be flying in Papua New Guinea. This aircraft is quite different to what I have flown previously back home in NZ – it’s a lot bigger and has a different type of engine, so that was a learning curve for me.

The MAF instructors taught me how to fly and think like a MAF pilot and how to interact with locals on the ground. One thing that was new to me, is having 20+ people coming right up to the aircraft after the engine was shut down. I was impressed by how my instructors took the time to chat to the locals whilst also watching the aircraft and loading/unloading goods and passengers. It was a highlight to interact with the locals who were happy to see us and say hello, but also meant a busy time on the ground between legs.

The highlight of my training would have been flying in and out of a safari game park and seeing elephants, giraffes, antelope and buffalo while coming in to land. You don’t see that in NZ!

What has it been like to meet other MAF staff and be a part of the MAF family overseas?

It has been such a highlight meeting other MAF staff from around the world. It’s an incredible experience when you’re working with people who share the same passion and calling you do – it’s very different to my previous job environments. People have been so kind and friendly to me, and I feel like I have already made so many friends that I will keep in contact with. It really is a big family, and I am glad to be a part of it!

How have you seen God move in your MAF journey so far?

I certainly saw God move when I was preparing to move overseas and completing the supportraising element. I was absolutely blown away by people’s generosity and God’s ability to provide. Many people asked me if I thought I would be able to raise the finance required. I always believed God would make it happen if this was where he wanted me to be – and He did.

What has God been teaching you?

At the moment, God has been teaching me about how I am created in His image. While the world will look at my outward appearance, God looks at my heart. In some ways, this job puts me on display, but he has been reminding me that was matters is my heart. This is giving me peace as I go about my day, and shifting my focus towards him.

Why is support from home so important?

Support is super important. I have a fantastic group of people who support me in my work with MAF through prayer and/or financial support. Prayer is essential as it is not easy spiritually or logistically for MAF to operate in the countries that we do. Secondly, MAF is a charity, and without the generous sponsorship of my supporters, I wouldn’t be able to work with MAF and bring hope to isolated people groups around the world.

If you would like to give towards our MAF staff, like Renee, please scan the QR code or go to: www.maf.org.nz/ support-our-staff/