Dr La-Verne Simukai is a Zimbabwean author and pastor, known for her contributions to the ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International. She is the daughter of Eunor and Ezekiel Guti, the founder of the organization. Born as La-Verne Guti, she has made significant strides in her career and has played a crucial role in the ministry.
Background
La-Verne Simukai was born as La-Verne Guti, the daughter of Eunor and Ezekiel Guti. She hails from Arlington, Texas, United States, and has established herself as a prominent figure in the ministry.
Siblings
La-Verne Simukai is one of seven siblings in the Guti family. Her siblings include Sarah Rusere, Dorcas Jaricha, Fiona Arthurs, Gracious Chikore, Ethanim Nyajeka, and the late Ezekiel Guti Junior.
Husband
La-Verne Simukai is married to Apostle Steve Simukai, who was Deputy Secretary General of ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International in 2014. Following Archbishop Ezekiel Guti’s death in 2023. Apostle Steve Simukai was named as one of the leaders of the church by Apostle Eunor Guti. Their partnership reflects their shared passion for the ministry and their dedication to its growth and success.
Children
Together, La-Verne and Steve Simukai are blessed with five children. Their family life is rooted in their faith and commitment to their community.
Education
La-Verne Simukai is a graduate of ZAOGA’s Africa Multination For Christ College (AMFCC). She pursued her education at Zimbabwe Ezekiel Guti University, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration & Management degree. She also holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Religion/Religious Studies from Friends International Christian University. Her academic achievements showcase her dedication to personal and professional growth.
Ministry and Achievements
La-Verne Simukai has an extensive career within ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International. She has made notable contributions and held important positions in the organization, demonstrating her commitment to the ministry’s mission.
Director of Women’s Ministry
Currently, La-Verne Simukai serves as the Director of Women’s Ministry at ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International. Her leadership in this role exemplifies her passion for empowering and guiding women in their spiritual journeys, and promoting gender equality within the ministry.
Global Contributions
La-Verne Simukai’s impact extends beyond the local community. As a prominent member of ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the ministry’s reach globally, ensuring its message reaches a wider audience.
Ezekiel Guti Succession
In July 2021, La-Verne Simukai grabbed attention due to reports of her involvement in a faction within ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International. The faction allegedly sought to influence the succession of Ezekiel Guti, her father, in the event of his passing. These reports generated controversy and speculation surrounding the future leadership of the organization.
La-Verne Simukai and her siblings Gracious Chikore and Dorcas Jaricha allegedly played crucial roles in purging senior ZAOGA FIF members such as Washington Rupapa.
Following her father’s death in July, 2023, she is yet to comment publicly on the succession issue.
Books
La-Verne Simukai is also a published author. One of her notable works is “The Journey of a Preacher’s Kid: We Wanna Be Like Them,” published in 2014. This book offers unique insights into her personal experiences and reflections as a preacher’s child, shedding light on the challenges and joys of growing up in a ministerial environment.
