OUR STAFF

From left to right – Chanel Hyser, Vanessa Marquad,  Elvirena Hope, Mark Ryan, Gianpaolo Gilardi, Lorenzo Louw, Keith Christian. 

– KIRSTENBOSCH BRANCH –

Our committee 

Shaun Schneier

Chair

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Shaun holds an MSc from the State University of New York and brings extensive expertise in environmental law, policy, and coastal management. With a career spanning roles at the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Birdlife SA, and SANCCOB, he offers deep knowledge of environmental protocols and legislation. Shaun has also served in project management and advisory capacities for both government and private entities, and is a former board member of the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals.

Louis van As

Treasurer and Vice Chair

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Louis van As brings a lifelong appreciation for nature, nurtured from his early days growing up on a farm. His interests have evolved from raising ducklings and observing wildlife to learning about indigenous trees and experimenting with Fynbos gardening. Living in Hout Bay offers him a peaceful balance to his professional life, where he works in the financial services industry.
As the branch treasurer, Louis contributes his financial expertise and deep-rooted passion for the natural world. With a busy household that includes his wife, two teenage sons, and a lively mix of pets, he embraces the opportunity to support the Kirstenbosch branch and hopes to make a meaningful impact during his tenure.

Alex Faria

Conservation

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Alex is a conservation biologist with expertise in regenerative agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and biodiversity management. With academic qualifications in Conservation Biology, Agricultural Science, and Commerce, he has worked across Southern Africa on rewilding and sustainable land-use projects. Alex brings a systems-level, practical approach to conservation that bridges science, community, and policy.

Janet Askew

HR & Legal

Saba Zahara

Social Media & Marketing

Ingrid Roomes

Fundraising

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Find out more about our fundraising activities. Or donate to our conservation work.