The vision for Transforming Leaders in Asia (TLA) was birthed long before its formal establishment in 2002. In 1996, while serving as the Regional Director of InterVarsity (UESI) in India, Dr. A.K. Lama (AK) was invited to minister at a retreat for 80 pastors. As he listened to their stories, struggles, and heartfelt concerns, the Lord impressed upon him the urgent need to equip, encourage, and empower pastors—many of whom were serving in isolation, facing spiritual battles with little support.
In that moment, AK recognized a deeper calling: if the Church is to fulfill the Great Commission effectively, it must have leaders who are well-trained, spiritually refreshed, and personally strengthened for the task.
As this vision grew, God opened new doors. AK was led to pursue advanced theological training at Beeson Divinity School in Alabama, where he also served as Minister of Mission at First Baptist Church of Birmingham. These years of preparation laid the foundation for what would eventually become Transforming Leaders in Asia.
During AK’s time in Alabama, God continued to strengthen the vision through key relationships at First Baptist Church of Birmingham. At that time, Dr. Benjamin Little Jon served as the pastor and Mr. Jim Thomason was the Chairperson of the Deacon Body. In 2000, both men traveled with AK to India to help teach and minister to pastors and leaders—further affirming the need for a long-term commitment to this work.
In 2002, that vision took formal shape. A group of leaders from First Baptist Church gathered in Mr. Jim Thomason’s home to officially launch Transforming Leaders in Asia as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Their prayerful commitment laid the foundation for a ministry that would impact pastors across South Asia for decades.
From 1999 onward, the Lord made it possible to host annual training programs for pastors and leaders (with the exception of 2002 and 2003). On average, each gathering welcomed 50–60 participants—many of whom serve in spiritually challenging and underserved regions. Through consistent, faithful service, TLA has earned the trust of church leaders across South Asia and continues to be a source of strength and support for those on the frontlines of ministry.
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