Neema Foundation Trustees
Brian Anderson, Theology, BTC
“It is exhilarating seeing the hope being born in a young life learning to read.”
Adrian Birt, B.Com (Honours) CA (SA) – University of Natal
“I have always believed education is key to real change in our country and I am excited to be part of an organisation making a difference in the area of education.”
Mike Coppinger, B.Com – University of Natal
“I believe that Neema is able to provide literacy skills to children who are not developing these skills through their formal schooling. I consider these skills to be key to their education, which in turn is fundamental to the upliftment of South African society.”
Vika Gwala is the pastor leading Thousand Hills Baptist Church where he is dedicated to serving his community. He has experience as a primary school teacher in KwaNyuswa and has been a tremendous help to the Neema staff in the development of the Gateway into Reading material.
Musa Ngidi is a gifted Primary School educator with strong leadership skills. He is a staunch supporter of Neema’s Gateway into Reading programme, with first hand experience of it in Ukusakwabasha Primary School.
Bruce Sobey, Pr Eng, MBA, BSc (Mech Eng)
“Education gives you wings to fly, and I want to assist those with limited educational opportunity.”
Neema Foundation Staff
We have over 60 volunteers including 16 qualified teachers, who assist us in teaching learners either directly or indirectly with the admin preparation of the lessons. The Neema Foundation and its learners benefit hugely through their generous gift of expertise and time.
Jenny Anderson the author of “Gateway into Reading,” is a primary school teacher with over 40 years teaching experience. She has been involved in the founding of Neema’s reading project. Jenny developed this programme as a tool to help learners establish basic reading skills. She is especially passionate about the material being used in the lives of those who would not be able to otherwise afford this educational support. Jen is the Tutoring Co-ordinator of the Neema Foundation and oversees our one-on-one Programme. Her depth of insight into the lives of our individual learners, and her amazing way with our volunteers, along with her knowledge of and love for GiR are special gifts we are grateful to have on our Neema team.
Philippa Barnard has been working in the NGO sector since 2008 and she has a special interest in training and development. In 2019, she joined the Neema team as a part-time financial administrator, assisting with the development and management of grants. Philippa works across multiple departments offering support to development, training, finance, monitoring and evaluation. Her critical eye for detail and a love of the English language make her an asset for resource review, editing and proof-reading. Our team benefits hugely from Philippa’s astute analysis of situations, coupled with her willingness to help in every situation.
Monica Haines has joined our team after 25 years in the corporate industry where she worked primarily as a project co-ordinator. Neema was glad to welcome her on to our team as our administrator in 2017. On a daily basis, we are reaping the benefits of her diverse administrative skills. Monica is passionate about serving her community and supporting people as they reach their God given potential. Her sincere faith, love for Jesus and sweet spirit are a great asset to us all in our office.
Daphney Majola joined Neema in April 2023. She is an essential part of our team both in the classroom and in the office. She shares our heart for the KwaNyuswa community and is passionate about providing education for children that will prepare them for the future. We are enriched by her love for people and her positive attitude to the world around her.
Karin McCathie joined the Neema team in 2024 and is responsible for training teachers to use “Gateway into Reading”. She began teaching over 30 years ago with experience in both foundation phase and primary school education. She has previously worked for an organisation that teaches English as a second language to children in rural schools and has also been a children’s and youth pastor. She has a great love for people and is passionate about the power of education to equip, uplift and transform lives. Kari’s amazing administration skills and astounding relational building skills strengthen and enrich our Neema team.
Helen Mitchell has been teaching with us at the Neema Foundation since 2013. She is an essential part of our team and does a large amount of one-on-one teaching of the “Gateway into Reading” programme at the Neema Learning Centre. Helen is a backbone of wisdom and strength and is extremely passionate about helping those who are underprivileged.
Cathy Potter has had 25 years’ teaching experience. She works with our programme in two schools, teaching large groups of second language learners. Cathy is passionate about Gateway into Reading and the difference it can make in the community. She especially loves to promote Neema whenever she can, encouraging other educators set up their own Gateway into Reading teams. Her willing spirit and servant heart are an invaluable asset on our team.
Lorryn Töllner began teaching in 2001 and has enjoyed working in various pre-schools and primary schools across the Durban and Upper Highway areas in KZN. She is passionate about bringing hope wherever she goes. For Lorryn, working at Neema is a dream opportunity to fulfil this passion. She is the Regional Projects Co-ordinator of the Neema Foundation and oversees our local projects. Lorryn also consults with our many partners on their use of the GiR programme in their communities. Neema is strengthened by her administration skills and the love and kindness Lorryn brings into our offices each day.
Briony Wood joined the Neema team in March 2024 after completing her honours degree in International Politics. She is passionate about the influence of nonprofit work and education in the community. Briony is a valuable part of our afternoon tutoring team with her sincere faith, happy enthusiasm, and special skills in administration. We are all enjoying the positive support she brings to everyone in our workspace.