For more than three years, Paula Alderblad has served with Mission Aviation Fellowship by weaving stories together, supporting communications teams across Africa, and bringing the mission’s heartbeat to life through images, videos and words. Now, as she prepares to return to Sweden, her journey speaks volumes about dedication, resilience, and a deep love for people.
Story by Hillim Gitonga
Paula’s introduction to MAF was unexpected but providential. While her husband Ulrik Alderblad applied for a chaplaincy role in Papua New Guinea, she began supporting MAF in Sweden with communications. Soon after, she was offered the role of Africa Regional Communications Manager, a dream job that led their family to Kenya.
I loved being a team leader. Encouraging new communications officers, equipping them with tools, and training them in storytelling brought me so much joy
From Uganda to Chad, Paula visited eight different MAF programmes, coaching local teams, gathering content, and building a network of storytellers who could amplify the impact of MAF's work.
Later, Paula transitioned into the role of Africa Regional Content Producer, focusing more on production. This role gave her more time to do what she loved most: producing stories and videos from the field.
Her impact has not gone unnoticed. Antsatiana Gino, MAF’s Communications Officer in Madagascar was one of her team who benefited from her coaching.
Paula is a great person to work with, kind, encouraging, and always willing to lend a helping hand.
“Her supportive nature really helped me during my induction period. I am very grateful for the opportunity to meet her in person during her visit in Madagascar.
“Going on a medical safari together was a memorable experience. I felt her genuine care for everything she does.”
Paula has filmed doctors in Madagascar singing to calm a young patient before surgery. She has visited a hospital in Liberia dependent entirely on MAF flights for medical supplies and staff.
Paula has witnessed how MAF brings help, hope, and healing to the most remote places.
Living abroad hasn’t been without sacrifice. Being far from some of her children was difficult, but the family cherished visits and made the most of summer reunions in Sweden. Despite the emotional toll, Paula found joy in building lasting friendships, learning from different cultures, and watching her team grow.
As she prepares to leave, Paula remains proud of what the communications team has achieved – from launching impactful partnerships with influencers to capturing compelling footage that continues to tell MAF’s story.
“We’ve influenced many, and that’s something I’ll carry with me,” Paula adds.
To her successor, Paula offers a simple word, “Enjoy!”
And when asked to sum up MAF’s heart, she says, “To see isolated people changed by the love of Christ, that’s the mission. And we do that by showing love in every way we can.”
Paula’s chapter with MAF may be closing, but her legacy of love, leadership, and light will continue to inspire those who follow