Dr Scott Downman

I’ve always had a fascination with mission, even before I was a Christian. When I was in high school the career’s advisor asked me what I wanted to do when I left school. I told her, “Be a missionary.” She looked at me puzzled and said, “I think you need to be a Christian first!” Fast forward six years, and after coming to faith at the age of 23 that desire and passion for mission was ignited in a meaningful and dramatic way. Within six months I was on a short-term trip to East Asia. This was followed by trips to Southeast Asia. In 2003 my wife, Chrissy, and I packed-up and moved to Thailand to serve in a Christian rehabilitation centre for survivors of human trafficking. This was followed by three years of living in remote parts of northern Thailand, leading preventative campaigns to combat human trafficking, while training local Christian workers. Through these experiences, I’ve learnt involvement in mission isn’t an optional extra to our faith, it’s something we’re all called to be a part of, in different ways and through different means.

My passion is not just about living and sharing the gospel, it’s also about understanding and learning culture. With a background in journalism and a PhD in Anthropology, that explored the impact of Christian conversion on one of Thailand’s tribal communities, I’ve experience first-hand that God wants to use our gifts and professional skills in our service to Him.

I have one daughter, Sariah, who is 18 and loves football, and a 13-year-old cat named Eric. I love going to the beach and growing my own organic herbs and vegetables. I’m currently the Queensland Relationship Manager for Interserve, a mission agency that’s existed for more than 170 years.