Dr Bianca Birdsey
Creative, Purposeful, Just
Bianca is one of the co-founders of THRIVE and Mother to three deaf children. Bianca is dedicated to championing the well-being of families and passionately advocates for families with deaf children both locally and internationally. Bianca’s exceptional drive to get the job done is one of Thrive’s greatest assets.
Debra Clelland
Optimistic, Empathetic, Grounded
Debra is Mom to three girls, two hearing and one deaf. After 15 years working in Investment Banking, she has finally found great joy in supporting parents like herself. She is the co-director of Thrive and is most passionate about connection, relationships and children being given the chance to live wholeheartedly.
Rob Deans
Authentic, Transparent, Dedicated
Rob is a Draughtsman, lover of the outdoors and the Treasurer for THRIVE. He is Dad to two girls, one hearing and one profoundly deaf. Rob’s versatility, willingness to be of service wherever he can and his deep integrity are some of the greatest strengths in the THIRVE leadership team.
Nelisiwe Khanyile
Wise, Resilient, Nurturing
Nelisiwe is a certified councillor and has served in a Mentorship role for THRIVE for over 4 years, she has four children and her youngest daughter is profoundly deaf. Nellie brings a unique wisdom and perspective from her lived experiences which is invaluable to the Thrive strategic decision making.
Namira Haripersad
Hopeful, Courageous, Honest
Namira is a professional engineer with three children, one of her twins is deaf with physical disabilities. Namira is dedicated to advocating for thoughtful inclusion and the rights of all children with disabilities. Her passion and creativity are major assets to the leadership of Thrive.
Jonene Johnson
Committed, Resourceful, Faithful
Jonene manages all aspects of Thrive Western Cape with a deep commitment. She is mother to two children and her daughter is deaf. Jo’s open-heartedness and sincerity shine through in all the work she does, these add tremendously to the foundations of our Thrive leadership.
Dr Ronelle Moodliar
Progressive, Thoughtful, Listener
Ronelle is a masters graduate in family medicine with a special interest in clinical research. She is the mother of three children, two of which are hard of hearing. Ronelle is a valued Thrive trustee who serves heartily to impact peoples lives for the better.