About El Roi Seven

Heaven Thawng Tha Bik
Heaven's ministry journey began as a house parent in a children's home, where he and his wife first cared for vulnerable children. This calling later led him into education, teaching for eight years in both Thai and International Christian Schools. Most recently, he served at Chiang Rai International School (CRICS), where his passion for Christ-centred education and discipleship deepened. Heaven holds a Master of Divinity from Myanmar and is currently completing his Bachelor's of Theology through Kairos University (USA) to further strengthen his biblical and pastoral training. As a father of two, he believes education is more than academics, it is about shaping hearts, instilling character, and raising compassionate leaders. He has now stepped out of the classroom teaching to dedicate himself fully to the ministry. 

Arlene Thienpont
Arlene is a Developmental Psychologist, counsellor, and educator with a heart for serving vulnerable children and families. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychological Counselling from the University of South Africa and a Master of Science in Psychology and Learning Disability from the University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom.
Originally from South Africa, Arlene has lived and worked across multiple countries, including several years in Northern Thailand, where her passion for cross-cultural ministry and child development deepened. Through her professional background and personal journey as a mother of three, she brings both clinical understanding and heartfelt compassion to the work of caring for children who have experienced trauma, displacement, and poverty.

Heaven and Arlene founded El-Roi Seven with a shared vision: to create a safe and nurturing home for children in northern Thailand who come from impoverished or at-risk backgrounds. Their mission is to provide not only shelter and education but also to share the unfailing love of Christ, giving each child the opportunity to thrive, discover their God-given potential, and embrace a hopeful future. Both Heaven and Arlene are registered members of Modern Day Missions (USA), which provides covering and accountability for their ministry work.