We are pleased to welcome two experienced and deeply committed leaders into key roles within our network: Richard Bremner, who takes on the position of General Manager at Tygerberg APD, and Michelle Niewoudt, who steps into the role of General Manager at ChangeAbility in Stellenbosch.

Both bring with them not only extensive professional experience, but a grounded, human understanding of the communities they serve; something that remains central to the work of WCAPD.

Richard’s journey reflects a broad and unique blend of professional and life experience.  Beginning his career in the corporate sector at Rex Trueform, where he rose to National Merchandise Manager overseeing significant operations and large teams, he later transitioned into entrepreneurship, successfully developing his own landscaping business.  In his early forties, Richard made a significant personal shift, returning to formal study and entering the ministry, where his work spanned diverse communities across South Africa.  His leadership within faith-based and community environments, including oversight of multiple congregations and later involvement in the disability sector through the Boundless Protective Workplace in Graaff-Reinet, speaks to a long-standing commitment to service, structure, and people-centred development.

Beyond his professional life, Richard is rooted in family, with two children and a young grandchild, and finds enjoyment in motorcycling, travel, and reading, interests that reflect both a sense of adventure and a thoughtful, reflective nature.

At Tygerberg APD, Richard steps into a role focused on rebuilding and strengthening the branch.  His immediate priorities centre on stabilising operations, supporting and capacitating staff, and ensuring that beneficiaries are meaningfully engaged whether through income-generating work or structured developmental programmes.  His approach is both practical and intentional: creating a safe, well‑functioning environment while exploring opportunities for growth, improved facilities, sustainable funding, and stronger governance.  Central to this is the belief that every beneficiary should experience purpose, dignity, and value in their daily engagement.

Michelle brings with her nearly three decades of experience within the social work and nonprofit sector, having worked extensively across South Africa in areas including child protection, community development, trauma intervention, and organisational leadership.  Her career has been defined by an ability to connect sectors, bringing together communities, businesses, NGOs, and government to build sustainable support systems.  Her work has consistently focused not only on immediate assistance, but on creating pathways for long-term empowerment and independence.

A significant portion of Michelle’s recent work has been in the highly specialised field of adoption social work, where she has supported individuals and families through complex and deeply personal processes, reinforcing her understanding of identity, resilience, and the importance of belonging.

Alongside her professional work, Michelle runs a therapeutic practice, reflecting her deep interest in emotional wellbeing and holistic development.  Outside of her work, she is drawn to meaningful conversations, writing, nature, and ongoing exploration of human connection and healing.

In her new role at ChangeAbility, Michelle’s priorities are clear.  She is focused on strengthening organisational sustainability through strategic partnerships, increased community engagement, and innovative programme development.  A key area of passion lies in creating opportunities that equip persons with disabilities with practical skills, confidence, and pathways toward economic participation.  In the coming months, she aims to deepen stakeholder relationships, enhance visibility, expand fundraising efforts, and work collaboratively with staff and communities to unlock new opportunities for growth and impact.

Richard and Michelle each bring a wealth of experience shaped across different sectors and life contexts, yet there is a shared thread that connects their work: a commitment to people, to community, and to meaningful, sustained inclusion.

WCAPD warmly welcomes both leaders and looks forward to working alongside them as part of a broader, collaborative effort to strengthen services across the province.  Their respective journeys add depth to the collective expertise within our network, and create space for shared learning, growth, and innovation.  As part of the MiAPD approach, their leadership further reinforces the value of shared responsibility, active participation, and partnership at every level.  Together, we will continue to work toward a common goal: achieving inclusion for persons with disabilities through strong leadership, responsive services, and a willingness to learn and grow collectively.

A warm welcome to them both!