OUR TEAM


Ellen Ruiters: Executive Director
email - ellen@myafricajam.org


Ellen Ruiters founded Africa Jam in 2001 after recognizing a need for safe, youth-empowering after school and faith development activities. Ruiters has been involved in youth development and ministry for more than 20 years.

She served as an inner-city educator for Right Step Academy and has held leadership positions with Young Life, Tree House and the Youth Forum Summer Festival and received the 2007 alumni service award from Gustavus Adolphus College, St. Peter, Minn., USA.

Cheryldene Hector: Director, Leadership Development


Cheryl has been working in unique partnership with Africa Jam since our inception in 2001. Our past collaborations on community projects with youth in Atlantis has brought about positive change in the lives of the youth we served.

Africa Jam is very excited to have Cheryl lead the Cape Town Team and share her wealth of experience working with non profits with Africa Jam. .

Karin VanWyk Project Coordinator, Office Manager
email - Karin@myafricjam.org


Karin first got involved with Africa Jam in 2001 as a youth participant when she was in 9th grade. Karin currently serves as a program coordinators as well as Africa Jam camp co-director.

Loyiso Damoyi: Project Coordinator
email - Loyiso@myafricajam.org


Loyiso Damoyi has been involved in Africa Jam since 2001 and was a stand-out participant in the organization's first annual camp. Damoyi currently manages the Khayelitsha Performing Arts group which provides creative after school programming for more than 90 young people.

Damoyi organizes weekend performances, teaches advanced acting and performance skills and encourages positive life change in his own community. Damoyi matriculated from The Ark City of Refuge, Cape Town, South Africa.

 

Ingrid Kruger


Ingrid Kruger works as an Africa Jam counselor. Her primary focus is on Lotus River and expanding the impact of the ministry there. However, she is an Africa Jam camps and leadership development.

Malize Lombard


Malize Lombard serves as the Africa Jam co-camp director. Malize started with Africa Jam in 2001 and is now helping to raise up new leaders within the ministry. Malize is also studying Social Work at the University of the Western Cape.

 

To lean more about funding Africa Jam staff positions, contact us.

To learn more about volunteering for Africa Jam, visit our volunteer page.

South Africa Board

Africa Jam has a South African board that is committed to raising funds, spreading the word about Africa Jam's mission and supporting the youth development work that is transforming South Africa.

United States Board

Africa Jam is also strengthened by a board in the US that directs funds, organizes mission and volunteer experiences and provides support.

To learn more about serving on Africa Jam's board of directors, contact us.

The following valued community members have committed to raising funds, spreading the word about Africa Jam's mission and supporting the youth development work that is transforming South Africa.

 

Coming Soon:

To learn more about serving on Africa Jam's board of directors, contact us.