Rachel Ness was born and raised in Africa. She is the daughter of missionaries who work with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Her childhood was impacted by her years of growing up in a village in Cameroon, and her worldview has been shaped by a life far different from most. After graduating from Winthrop University with a degree in Social Work, Rachel worked for several years in Foster Care and Adoptions. She and her husband, Erik (also a child of Wycliffe missionaries), later returned to Africa as a family and worked in Kenya and Tanzania for over 12 years. Their ministry focus was mentorship, community development, and farming initiatives. They have three children, and when in the USA, call Rock Hill home. Rachel currently works as a Real Estate agent, and Erik runs a home remodeling business. They are active participants in their home church, Hope Fellowship, and are content to serve the Lord in whatever capacity God allows them.