Our Board
TARYN CASEY
Taryn runs an education Non Profit Organisation called Edufundi, in Cape Town. She has twelve years’ experience in the development sector in South Africa and five years of teaching experience abroad. She is personally passionate about the environment and mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga. Taryn loves that ECP provides opportunities for children living in really challenging circumstances to benefit from the peace and joy that comes with access to these experiences and practices. Taryn has been an ECP board member since 2014.
CHERYL CORNELISSEN
Cheryl is an experienced Senior Financial Analyst with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. She is an astute finance manager who is able to weave the fabric of commercial management through the strategic, operational and delivery priorities of a complex technology program. Cheryl joined the ECP board in 2021 to assist by applying finance expertise to provide oversight and help to shape the strategic direction of the Project. Cheryl is excited about the positive and lasting impact that ECP has on each child that is a part of the Project.
DEIDRÉ BAATJES
Deidré is a Learning and Development Manager turned Yoga Teacher. Her purpose is to anchor Light and to help others discover theirs, while supporting them along their process of heart awakening. She fulfills this purpose by advocating compassionate ways of living, teaching non-dual and yogic philosophy, meditation techniques, breathing practices and yogic asanas. Deidre loves how ECP so boldly and directly addresses many of our country’s social challenges where it matters most i.e. with our children. She feels strongly aligned to Earthchild’s mission and values, and is passionate about serving its children and teachers as needed. Deidre joined the ECP board in 2021.
PHINDILE DHLAMINI-MOTSHEGWA
Phindile works in research, production, consulting and advisory, and became an ECP board member in 2021. The work of ECP intersects with her heart-led values, appreciation for multi-layered development and impact-orientated approach. She recognises the massive value in the offering which teaches the discipline of yoga, basic gardening skills and how to relate harmoniously with the environment around us. Phindile believes that these are accessible, simple practices that anybody anywhere may relate to and apply in growing their connection with themselves.
LISA PANTANI
Lisa is a Storytelling Guide who helps people tell their stories for healing and to engage audiences. Her background is in psychology, education, storytelling and speech and drama, as well as facilitation training and programme development for Non Profit Organisations. Lisa is a founding member of ECP, and became part of the board in 2007. She loves the Project and its positive impact on under-resourced communities in Cape Town. She has enjoyed supporting and witnessing the journey of growth and consolidation over the years. Lisa believes that mindfulness tools and eco education are essential areas that all schools should be adopting.