Dave Burgess Joins UboraTZ as President
The cross-cultural partnership of two communities on opposite sides of the Atlantic, now known as UboraTZ, continues to gain momentum with the announcement of Dave Burgess as President.
The announcement was made by Jerry Thames, Chairman of the Board and one of the founders of the Atlanta non-profit that serves a once impoverished region of Tanzania near Mt. Kilimanjaro. The mission of Ubora–to create holistic community transformation in the Siha District of Tanzania–is carried out in partnership with local faith, community and government leaders in that area. Thames will continue to serve in his role as board chair and will remain actively involved in fundraising for the organization.
“We are thrilled to have Dave join us to lead Ubora,” said Jerry. “He brings a unique perspective as a board member, and supporter/prayer warrior of this organization for many years. Dave’s professional background as an engineer, Georgia Tech graduate and entrepreneur, combined with that of him being a natural born leader and man of God, make him uniquely qualified to serve in this role as President.”
As president of Ubora, Dave’s primary responsibilities include:
Strategic vision and leadership of the organization
Financial and organizational expansion
Infrastructure and operations development
“The work that God has been doing in a small corner of Tanzania over the past 18 years is a living example of how Jesus’ love can truly change lives,” said Dave. “Isn’t it just like Him to put Tanzanian and American brothers and sisters together on a crazy adventure to transform a little lost village into a beacon of hope and excellence? I am humbled and privileged to help lead our dedicated, spirit-filled, and highly capable team as we continue in this Gospel adventure to transform the Siha District.”
Dave and his wife, Lawanna (Lu) have been married for 24 years and have three children, Kacey (15), Cambelle (13), and Will (11). Adventurers at heart, the Burgess family enjoys hiking, camping, biking, and skiing together. The family is actively involved at Perimeter Church and School. Dave has served on a number of boards, including Perimeter School and the Tanzanian Ministry of Perimeter Church (now UboraTZ).
“Our entire family has been blessed by this ministry, and collectively we’ve made nine trips to Tanzania,” explained Dave. “Each trip transforms us, as we get a greater glimpse into how God’s family works together to spread the love of Christ, foster hope, and change lives. I look forward to helping Ubora grow as a highly effective organization that continues this mission.”
Dave officially takes the reigns as President of UboraTZ on August 1, 2020.
To learn more, visit: uboratz.org or email: daveburgess@ubortatz.org.