Our Story
Students from Africa have a long history in Reno. One of the primary links to Africa from Reno is the Mackay School of Mines at the University of Nevada, Reno. This renowned school trains future mining engineers to lead mining exploration, processing, and related fields in geology, metallurgy, hydrology, geothermal and petroleum industries. Africa’s rich abundance of natural mineral resources has always needed to raise up native Africans to lead in these industrial efforts. This led to many students and even families from countries like Cameroon, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Ivory Coast, Senegal, South Africa and others to come study in Reno. Many of whom obtained work-experience jobs throughout Nevada, and the West, especially in Elko, the center of gold mining in the USA.
In the late 1970s, a young Kenyan international student came to the University of Nevada, Reno to study. He found there was little Christian witness on the university campus. In those days, Reno still had a “Wild West” feel, with very few churches, and many sinful vices that was part of the culture.
Moved by God’s heart for young people, this international student started the first Intervarsity Christian Fellowship chapter on the university campus. This has gone through ups and downs, and changes throughout the years. It is still one of the original campus fellowships in Reno and exist today, primarily reaching American college students. Over the years, Intervarsity at UNR has reached thousands of students, and continues to do so. Learn more about IVCF here.
Campus Ministry Growth
Campus ministries in Reno slowly grew from the 1990s through today. Many of these ministries include Cru (formerly Campus Crusade for Christ), Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Reno International House (part of International Students Inc.), and Chi Alpha. In addition to these several local churches, including All People Christian Church, Living Stones, Resonate Church and others. Many of these ministries have student leaders who are African international students in the past.
We also seek to help you become a world changer, through the Global Impact Discipleship Program.
The contributions of Africans in Reno’s ministry community goes both deep and wide.
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people He has chosen for his own inheritance.“
– Psalm 33:12
What We Do
African Student Fellowship of Reno seeks to build a Christian community among international students. We are a community of believers in Christ who pray, learn and explore God’s plan for our lives while in Reno. We work together with other campus ministries and churches, and are connected with International Jesus Fellowship, Reno International House, and Bible Study Fellowship.
Seasonal Bible Studies
Bible studies together with fellow African friends on campus at UNR and TMCC. Whether it is summer, winter, or during school semester, we open the Bible and listen to God’s guidance in our life. We also help equip other campus ministries reach, mobilize and disciple African students.
Prayer
International students, including us from the African continent, face many challenges while studying in the USA. Whether it is family needs back home, struggles in studies, visa issues, and marriage, we seek to care for one another through prayer, trusting God can do the miraculous.
Friendship and Fellowship
Occasionally, throughout the year, we have social gatherings and meals together, to rejoice in what God is doing through the African community in Reno.
We also offer opportunities to practice leadership and become a leader in your study field.
Meeting other International Students
Friendships from Around The World
Including fellowship with fellow believers in Jesus, with other campus ministries. Make friends, connect and grow your faith in Christ.
Local Families
Connections with Reno Christian families
Working together with local churches, local American and African families host students for holiday dinners. A place to belong during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and Easter. Many families have assisted with student driving training, furniture moving assistance and more.