Lillian Okech’s story began in a refugee camp in Uganda, where she was born into a life marked by both hardship and resilience. Her mother, pregnant with her at the time, fled South Sudan on foot, carrying Lillian’s older brother and essential belongings. Life in the camp was challenging, with limited resources and health struggles defining much of Lillian’s early years. Yet, even amid adversity, seeds of curiosity and faith were planted, sparked by the presence of a Seventh-day Adventist teacher in her camp.
This teacher stood out to young Lillian—not just for his faith but for his kindness and demeanor. “He treated children differently,” she recalls. “The way his children dressed and behaved was different too.” Though she grew up in a predominantly Catholic environment, Lillian’s interest in the Adventist faith quietly grew. Years later, this early curiosity would come full circle when she relocated to the United States.
As a teenager, Lillian’s life took another unexpected turn. At just 16 years old, cultural expectations led her to marry after becoming pregnant. Her new life with her Adventist husband was fraught with challenges. The abrupt introduction to Adventist practices—from dietary restrictions to cultural norms—created tension. “I wish he had taught me about the Adventist faith in a loving way,” she says. Instead, the rules felt imposed, leaving Lillian feeling isolated and misunderstood.
Despite the difficulties, Lillian’s curiosity about the Adventist faith persisted. Encouraged by engaging sermons and welcoming members of the Des Moines Seventh-day Adventist Church, she began exploring the Bible. A pivotal moment came when she encountered Kenneth Cox’s teaching on baptism on 3ABN. His message about the public declaration of faith as a commitment to Christ resonated deeply with Lillian. “That teaching made it clear to me,” she states. “I called my pastor and decided to be baptized.”
The decision deepened her spiritual journey but also highlighted a growing rift in her marriage. “There wasn’t a strong foundation in Christ,” she reflects, “and that led to our divorce.”
The aftermath brought a mix of challenges and opportunities. As a single mother of four boys Lillian faced the daunting task of
providing for her family, without wanting to rely on government assistance. Cleaning her church became a source of both income and inspiration. One day, while vacuuming the sanctuary, she paused to pray. “The Holy Spirit was clear,” she said. “I felt called to start a cleaning company—not just to support my family but to help others in need.”
With little knowledge of business but a firm faith in God, Lillian sought help. Mr. Robert, a trusted church member, believed in her vision and loaned her $10,000 to start her company, called Cleaning for Hope. She also turned to the Iowa Center for Economic Success, which provided critical training on payroll, taxes and small business management. These resources helped her transform her vision into a thriving enterprise.
What began as a one-woman operation cleaning homes and offices quickly expanded. Today, Cleaning for Hope employs nine people and generates over $250,000 annually. The business serves as both a livelihood and a ministry, redistributing donated furniture and clothes from clients to families in need. This initiative inspired Lillian and her friend Caryn to co-found a nonprofit, Hope to Shine, which provides entrepreneurship and English classes, driving lessons, and support for refugees navigating life in the U.S.
Reflecting on her journey, Lillian credits her faith and the kindness of others for guiding her through life’s trials. From her near-death experience at nine years old to the challenges of starting a business as a single mother, she sees God’s hand in every step. “God saved me as a child, and I know He will never abandon me,” she shares.
Today, Lillian finds joy in inspiring others through her story. Whether cleaning church bathrooms or mentoring refugees, she emphasizes the importance of embracing every task with gratitude and purpose. Her message is clear: even the smallest acts of faith and service can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Visit nadadventist.org/ajlilianoketch for more of Oketch’s story
Interview conducted by Art Brondo, media producer, North American Division. Initial article draft created by ChatGPT based on the interview; final revisions and editing by Hugh Davis.
