Marion joined in 2014 with extensive corporate experience, following a 20-year career at Shell International leading global projects. She later served as COO at Umthombo Wesizwe and Deputy Director at African Solutions to African Problems. She holds a UK BA (Hons), a German Business Administration degree, and an MBA from Heriot-Watt University. Her voluntary work includes chairing an Improvement District, supporting the Homestead Street Children’s Project, and five years as a volunteer wildfire fighter. She has completed over 50 marathons, including 11 ultras, and led the Enduroman Challenge relay team, which swam the English Channel.

With over 14 years of experience across corporate finance, nonprofit leadership, impact strategy, and governance, Jaco de Kock specialises in building sustainable financial models, innovative funding structures, and scalable operational systems that drive real-world change.

He is a Chartered Accountant and a catalyst for positive, well-organized change. Jaco never settles for the status quo — instead, he sees opportunities for innovation in every process and views missed attempts as essential steps on the path to success.

In short, he is NGO finance meets corporate finesse, with a dash of policy wizard and a whole lot of purpose.

Lene has worked for more than two decades across Africa’s not-for-profit landscape. She is deeply committed to impact and locally driven innovation. Lene champions solutions that unleash the power of individuals, communities, and financiers to co-create a better future. She believes in fostering an inclusive environment where all stakeholders harness local resources and overcome challenges.

Selina joined Breadline Africa in 2004, transitioning from its administrative partner, Isonka Trust. With a strong marketing background, she’s passionate about using her skills to support under-resourced communities through the NGO sector, which she describes as “where she truly belongs.” Deeply family-oriented, Selina enjoys spending her free time doing activities her children love and raising them to care about others. Her dedication to making a difference is matched by her commitment to creating lasting impact through the work Breadline Africa does.

Adrian Kearns is a seasoned NGO and public sector leader with over 20 years of experience in strategy, service delivery, and civic tech-enabled development. As Head of Programmes at Breadline Africa, he leads infrastructure initiatives supporting early childhood development in underserved communities. Previously, he served as Head of Strategic Services at Bergrivier Municipality, where he championed citizen-centered planning and accessibility of development frameworks. Adrian also managed national platforms like Vulekamali and Municipal Money at OpenUp, fostering transparency and public participation. He brings expertise in agile project management and product ownership, driving collaborative, data-informed solutions that strengthen institutions and empower communities.

Warren joined Breadline Africa in 2024 as Head of Strategic Partnerships. With 16 years of corporate experience, he now leads the organisation’s business development efforts and Pit Toilet Campaign alongside the Director. A Grey High School alumnus, he’s studied at Nelson Mandela University, GIBS, and UNISA. Outside work, Warren enjoys traveling with his wife Tlangelani, exploring local cultures, braaing, and lawn bowls. A sports enthusiast and former contestant on Ultimate Braai Master, he brings energy and strategic insight to his role.

Mette spends her days turning big ideas into bold campaigns and making sure the right stories reach the right hearts at the right time. At Breadline Africa, she turns purpose into action, building classrooms, bringing dignity and sparking hope. Previously, she led award-winning global marketing in finance, and before that, ran a fashion brand and digital agency, proof she’s not afraid of a challenge. She loves sharp thinking, getting things done and cooking feasts for friends and family (offset by just enough sport).

Nonjabulo joined Breadline Africa in 2023 as a social impact professional specialising in impact measurement and management. She has expertise in research, monitoring, evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and impact reporting. With experience in conducting SROI-based studies, she holds a BSc Honours in Environmental Science and a Bachelor of Social Science in Geography & Environmental Management. Passionate about sustainable development, she actively contributes to climate action and community development.

Janine builds meaningful connections that turn generosity into impact. With years of corporate experience in project management and business development in the exhibition and events space, she brings a sharp eye for detail, a quick wit and a no-fuss approach to getting things done. A firm believer in the power of collaboration and co-creation, she is deeply passionate about community upliftment and lasting change. Outside of work, Janine finds joy in shared adventures with loved ones and getting lost in a well-written crime novel.

Kim joined Breadline Africa in 2019 as a digital marketing specialist. She’s passionate about growing digital channels and crafting creative campaigns that drive results. With experience across sectors, Kim takes a hands-on approach to social media strategy and emerging tech. An avid cyclist and adventure enthusiast, she also loves photography and is always ready to explore new experiences. At Breadline Africa, she blends creativity and strategy to help amplify the organisation’s mission.

Johan joined Breadline Africa in 2020 as Marketing Manager, bringing broad experience in the media industry, with a focus on digital and print subscription marketing and business development. He studied advertising at the AAA School of Advertising, holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Enterprise Management from UCT, and earned an MBA from UCT’s Graduate School of Business. A member of the Mountain Club of South Africa and a passionate woodworker, Johan spends his free time exploring the outdoors or covered in sawdust.

Cleon joined Breadline Africa in 2007 as a Junior Marketing Assistant. She has since obtained a Marketing degree and is currently a valuable member of our Marketing Team. Cleon is responsible for Breadline Africa’s extensive Direct Mail Programme which spans South Africa, Ireland, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. She is the proud mother of two young girls and is very enthusiastic about her contribution to community development.

Debbera is Breadline Africa’s dedicated Finance and Administration Manager. Since joining the organisation in 2002, Debbera’s passion for purposeful work has led her to contribute across almost every area of our operations. Her wealth of knowledge and experience makes her an invaluable team member — affectionately known as our “institutional memory.” When she’s not working with spreadsheets, she expresses her creativity through painting and other artistic pursuits.

Gail joined Breadline Africa in 2009 and has served Breadline Africa’s cause in both the programmes and marketing departments. With prior experience at Grow Peace in Africa, she brings strong administrative and community engagement skills. Gail works closely with beneficiary organisations and is passionate about grassroots change, believing that “the community is her university.” When she’s not at work, she enjoys running, avoids messy rooms, and does a mean push-up. She believes that we all have a role to play in building a better society.

Jodie joined Breadline Africa in 2023 as Technical Field Manager, with a decade of experience in public and private sector project management, particularly in education and healthcare. He’s highly skilled in alternative building methodologies and oversees projects from design to installation. A former BMX national athlete and South African colours recipient, Jodie has competed globally and now channels his adventurous spirit into fishing, travel, and outreach initiatives. His drive for impact matches his passion for innovation in construction.

Nyaradzo joined Breadline Africa as M&E Specialist in 2024, bringing over a decade of experience in socio-economic development. Passionate about impact measurement, she ensures that every resource invested answers the question: “so what?” Her background spans public health, job creation, community care, and financial inclusion. She holds a Master’s in Development Studies (Cum Laude) from UFS and is pursuing a PhD in Education. Nyaradzo is dedicated to uplifting communities through education and enjoys motivational books, movies, and hiking in her free time.

Yazid joined Breadline Africa in 2024 as a Maintenance Contracts Quantity Surveyor. With over 10 years of experience in construction management and quantity surveying—across both public and private sectors—he also brings 11 years of expertise in writing manufacturer detail specifications. He holds a National Diploma in Construction and a BTech in Quantity Surveying. A devoted father of four, Yazid enjoys fishing, spending time with family, and cheering for Liverpool, the Stormers, and the Springboks. He’s proud to support an organisation that provides safety and dignity to young children.

Emily studied International Politics at Stellenbosch University and co-authored Learning under Lockdown with Professor Jonathan Jansen, exploring the impact of COVID-19 on education.

She brings a solid background in research, community projects and stakeholder engagement. In her business development role, Emily focusses on building and nurturing relationships with corporates that invest in early childhood development through Breadline Africa.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, meaningful conversations and exploring hidden gems around Cape Town.