about Zalomi
Christian foundation in Romania
Zalomi: born from a drive and passion for the Christian gospel
Driven by a calling and triggered by the combination of entrepreneurship and missionary work, two passionate thirty-somethings started a Christian foundation: Zalomi.
Motivated by the Christian gospel to give meaning to others, Martin and Jacqueline van Hell founded the Zalomi Foundation.
Martin is an entrepreneur who recently sold his business, while Jacqueline has worked as a real estate agent for many years. They both had the desire to make a greater impact in this life and felt called to share the Christian gospel. They both decided to leave their jobs and dedicate themselves 100% to the work of God.
After exploring various Christian foundations and having worked for two years within one, they decided to take matters into their own hands. Zalomi was established!
And let’s be honest; everything costs money. Just like in entrepreneurship, you need to make well-considered decisions. Only then can you be sure that funds are spent 100% wisely. And when we choose to commit to something, we go all-in. Full focus.
Using and Spreading Wisdom
The name Zalomi is derived from ‘Solomon.’ Solomon, a king in the Bible, was known for his wisdom. This wisdom is essential for us to share the gospel effectively and engage in missionary work. The name Solomon also means ‘peace.’ This peace is associated with the peace found in faith in Jesus.
Execution
Martin and Jacqueline are the driving force behind Zalomi
They live in the Netherlands but are more often found in Codlea, Romania. This allows them to stay closely involved with the community centers. By being physically present regularly, they get a better understanding of what is happening. In our view, this is how you make the most impact and can make better decisions. It is also beneficial for focusing on the long-term vision. And importantly, it strengthens the contact with Tania and the volunteers.
Our foundation relies on donations. To receive these, we must remain in the spotlight. This takes time and energy and we primarily carry out these activities in the Netherlands. This includes conversations with other organizations, brainstorming with entrepreneurs, or collaborating with churches, for example.
Of course, this also involves marketing efforts. Think of creating newsletters and keeping the website and social media up-to-date.
Martin is the entrepreneurial, creative mind with a healthy dose of daring. Jacqueline, on the other hand, is mainly focused on structure, execution, and organization. A perfect match!
Read more about the team of community center Lumina here.
The board of Zalomi
Jacqueline van Hell-Ravenhorst
“I am not easily satisfied; I pay attention to the smallest details and strive for the best result. I am driven, passionate, and a bit of a perfectionist. My ultimate goal? To develop Zalomi into a contemporary, fresh, and valuable foundation. A foundation that puts the Christian gospel into practice.”
Martin van Hell
“I am driven by the conviction of the importance of having Jesus at the center of your life. My goal is to reach people with the gospel. When I choose something, I commit to it 100%. And I do that by making well-considered decisions. That’s how you achieve the success you envision. That is what I have learned from years of entrepreneurship. I bring that same mindset to Zalomi.”
Marcel Pluim
“I have several years of experience in administrative roles within various organizations. I apply this talent to this missionary endeavor as well. Being there for others can be of great significance. I hope to achieve this with Zalomi. To provide a place where you are seen and where you matter as a person.”
Ard Slagmoolen
“Finding solutions to difficult issues. That is what I enjoy doing. With this, I want to help Zalomi move forward and thereby spread the gospel further.”
Harmen van der Wekken
“In my daily life, I am active as an entrepreneur in green businesses. I see myself as a down-to-earth person. I am happy and grateful to be able to support the board in the calling to spread the love of Jesus in Romania.”