Neels Loots was born on January 19, 1980 and grew up in Kathu, Northern Cape. He matriculated in 1998 at the Higher Technical School in Kimberley and began his studies as a Paramedic in Potchefstroom. He worked for 22 years during which he received his calling as a minister. He started studying theology at the University of the North-West in 2011. In 2016, he obtained the degree BTh. In March 2017 he obtained the degree BA Honors Theology (Practical Theology under the guidance of Dr. Sarel Corrie). The title of his mini-thesis is: “Secular Study on the Influence of Repetitive, Refractory Trauma on the Psychosocial Lifestyle of the Rescue Worker.” In 2018 he started MTh Theology at the University of the Free State under the leadership of Dr. Juanita Meyer. Neels is someone who is excited about youth and leadership in the family connection. Neels has a heart for the “Outsiders”. (People who do not join a church or who are seeking). He started working in the youth ministry in 2015 after which he moved to Thailand in 2018 and served among the Thai youth and community. Unity, reconciliation and justice are very important to Neels and he has served in many communities as part of his calling. Furthermore, he is particularly interested in reading, rhythm guitar, cycling, hiking and travel adventures. Neels is married to Elona Loots (Powell), ʼn midwife, and has three daughters.