Written By: Patty Nacho
A New Chapter with CBM
Since the beginning of this year, God has opened a new chapter in my journey with CBM as Team Leader for Latin America. When I received the invitation to step into this role, I had many doubts and took them to God in prayer. One of my biggest concerns? I would be the first female solo Team Leader for Latin America.
In an ideal world, gender wouldn’t be a factor in deciding whether to accept a leadership opportunity. However, in the Latin American context, female leadership is still questioned and not widely accepted.
The Latin America Team, from Left to Right: Kathryn Scott, Patty Nacho, Kallie & Tim Hutton, Janice & Bill Dyck, Byron Velásquez
Women in Leadership: A Changing Landscape
Last week, while attending a church event in Bolivia, I had a conversation that stuck with me. Someone commented, “Have you noticed that women are invading leadership positions?” Then, almost as an afterthought, they added, “But I’m happy because they do it well.”
I smiled and let the conversation move on. But that word—invading—lingered in my mind. Sadly, many people still see women in leadership as intruders in a space that was traditionally dominated by men.
This mindset is deeply rooted in conservative groups across Latin America, including within Christian circles, where certain biblical passages are often used to justify limiting women’s roles. While progress is happening, change remains slow.
Redefining Leadership in the Church 
At its core, leadership—especially Christian leadership—is about service. A leader isn’t someone who assumes superiority but someone who guides with humility, recognizing the strengths and gifts of others.
Yet, when a woman takes on a leadership role, society often places higher expectations and greater pressure on her. Leadership, in many cases, remains an unspoken challenge for women.
However, throughout history, God has used women in powerful ways—both within and outside the Church—to bless their communities. I have personally witnessed the dedication of countless women serving in the Church. Many invest their time caring for children, visiting hospitals and prisons, and sharing a message of hope and reconciliation.
And while these roles align with traditional expectations, I have also worked alongside women who have led churches through times of great conflict, served on boards making crucial decisions, and boldly stepped into roles where their leadership was once unthinkable.
Fundamentally, I believe that this type of leadership is both necessary and important because it allows the Church to take action beyond its walls and have a tangible presence in the wider community. Leadership like that of the women mentioned above helps society see God’s love reflected in real and meaningful ways.
A Heart Willing to Serve
For me, Scripture is clear—God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. What matters is a willingness to serve, lead, and guide. If someone has a heart surrendered to God, He will use them mightily.
God’s mission is vast, and there is room for everyone who desires to serve. He calls each of us—men and women alike—to step forward in faith and embrace the opportunities He places before us.
As I continue in this new chapter, I do so with confidence that God’s plan is bigger than societal expectations. And I trust that He is leading the way.
