Building Hope, Changing Futures: A Conversation with the CEO of Ethlyn's Hope
Many people will never see what life looks like inside an orphanage or in a community where even a simple meal is uncertain. It is easy to hear about poverty from a distance, but being present changes the way you understand both the challenges people face and the resilience they carry every day.
Real change rarely begins with a grand plan. More often, it starts with one person responding to a need, one relationship at a time, and choosing to keep showing up year after year. Over time, those small acts of faithfulness can grow into something that changes countless lives.
What stands out most is not only the work being done, but the hope it creates. A safe place to live, the opportunity to go to school, access to medical care, and the chance to learn a trade can change the direction of a child's future.
In this episode of Time Out with the Sports Doctor, Dr. Derrick Burgess sits down with Ethlyn Cowan, founder of Ethlyn's Hope Center in Kenya. She shares the remarkable story of how a calling to missionary work grew into a home for orphaned children and a ministry that now serves thousands through education, medical missions, and community outreach. Together, they reflect on the realities of poverty, the power of faithful service, and why investing in people can leave a lasting impact for generations to come.
“The Holy Spirit literally spoke to me and told me I need to be doing this kind of work, missionary work, using my skills as a nurse to help those who are disadvantaged.” – Ethlyn Cowan
Topics Covered:
00:00:00 – Introducing Ethlyn Cowan and Ethlyn's Hope
00:02:10 – How the mission began
00:03:50 – The story behind Ethlyn’s Hope
00:04:34 – How local women inspired the mission
00:06:28 – The $1,000 donation that helped start the center
00:09:01 – The realities of poverty in rural Kenya
00:12:12 – The children of Ethlyn’s Hope
00:13:32 – Success stories from the center
00:15:36 – Growing the medical mission
00:16:55 – Partnership with Maseno University
00:18:40 – How to donate and sponsor a child
00:19:21 – Future plans for a vocational center
00:20:42 – Why this work matters
00:21:55 – Closing remarks
Key Takeaways:
“These are poor women also, but they didn't just stay home. They were trying to help make sure that these kids go to school.”
“As poor as they are, these people are rich in spirit.” – Ethlyn Cowan
“When you engage with them, you can't help but to want to be a part of what's going on and want to help them and see them succeed.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess
“You don't have to be anything medical. As long as you've got two hands and two feet, we will find something for you to do.” – Ethlyn Cowan
“This definitely is a trip that's worth spending the money on. You come and you will not go back the same.”– Ethlyn Cowan
“Even if you don't have a heart, you'll still find one.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess
About Our Guest
Ethlyn Cowan is a registered nurse, missionary, and founder of Ethlyn's Hope Center, a community-based organization serving vulnerable children and families in Marera, Kenya. After earning her master's degree in Global Health, a practicum in Kenya led to a lifelong commitment to the community. Working alongside local women, she helped establish an orphanage and continues to lead annual medical missions that provide healthcare, education, and support to children and families in the surrounding villages. Guided by Matthew 25:40, Ethlyn is passionate about serving others and believes that lasting change begins by making a difference one person at a time.
Connect with Ethlyn Cowan
Website: https://www.ethlynshopewomen.org/
Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:
Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.derrickburgess243
Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com
Other Links: https://www.hbcuendzone.org/about
Scrubs to Skylines: https://www.instagram.com/scrubstoskylines/
This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.
