This blog was written by our Engagement Specialist, Ruth Ajayi. Ruth was one of BAM Canada’s first interns and has taken on various volunteer and part-time roles over the years. She is now a full-time member of the team, dedicated to growing our existing relationships and fostering new ones for strategic impact.

First introduced to BAM as a university student, I quickly dove into the world of faith, work, and redemptive business. I read articles on the foundations of BAM, learned all about the QBL, and went on to work as an intern and summer student with BAM Canada.

Now, two years later, I’m the full-time Engagement Specialist on the BAM Canada team - fully immersed in all things missional business.

It’s been two months into my new role and I recently attended my first BAM Global Summit.

Prior to the Summit, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I imagined a large Zoom meeting with people from around the world gathered to learn more about BAM and how they could get involved. I knew I would hear incredible stories, but as a non-business owner myself, I didn’t expect to be particularly inspired.

I was wrong. Not only was I inspired by the stories I heard, but I was also challenged to rethink my understanding of BAM.

Here are some of my post-event ideas:

1. BAM is truly GLOBAL

I know, the meaning is implied in the title ‘BAM Global’, but hear me out.

Every day, I’m blessed to connect with Canadian Christians who are passionate about missional business. I listen to their stories and get a glimpse into the heart God has given them for advancing His kingdom through profitable business - it’s amazing. (We also share these stories HERE!)

At the BAM Global Summit, I had the privilege of connecting with, and hearing stories from, believers in every part of the world.

I heard from BAMers in the Middle East, South Asia, West Africa, North America, and more! These experiences taught me that what God is doing through business can’t be understood in a single cultural context, but as an interconnected network of business leaders on mission in their local contexts - what a gift!

2. There is no stereotypical “BAM business”

When most people think of a socially impactful business, they don’t picture high-end, hand-crafted outerwear retailing for upwards of 300 CAD. Neither did I - until I attended the BAM Global Summit.

One of the most inspiring stories I heard came from a Swedish-Canadian couple who moved to South Asia to start an ethical clothing company. Using quality products and transparent business practices, they created a high-end knit-wear brand that is now globally recognized for its quality and style.

Another impactful story came from a young, female entrepreneur in the Middle East. She and a few associates started a cafe that served their region’s thriving coffee culture and helped them build deep relationships with their community.

These businesses did not belong to the same market, nor did they serve the same audience. Yet, both existed to advance the flourishing of all people through profitable business.

3. BAM is an expression of love

Listening to business owners share about their companies, I was struck by two things: 1) None of their journeys were linear, and 2) None of their journeys were easy.

Although they faced many hardships, including COVID, changing markets, lack of profit, and cultural barriers, they were all motivated by the love they’d received through Christ. In turn, they dedicated their lives to bringing His love to all nations, in and through their business.

Dallas Willard said it well:

“Business is a primary moving force for the love of God in human history.”

It was love that motivated one company to help rebuild a farming town after it had been devastated by extreme weather events and the effects of the pandemic. Similarly, it was love that motivated the Swedish-Canadian couple to start a business that empowers marginalized and poverty-stricken women in South Asia.

Across all BAM businesses, love is the common denominator.

Take a moment to reflect: is your business motivated by love for God and others?

Overall, I left the BAM Global Summit with a new, richer understanding of BAM. Not only is the movement driven by love, but it is also applicable in every geographical context and every industry.

I was challenged, encouraged, and inspired. After reading this, I hope you are too.

If you find yourself wanting to learn more about BAM and what it could mean for you, check out some of our FREE resources: https://www.businessasmission.ca/blog

A Fresh Perspective: Insights From the 2024 BAM Global Summit