Since 2000, Marius Erasmus, principal of a special school, saw that people with disabilities (PWD) struggle to find job opportunities due to high costs for transportation and CV creation. Meanwhile, companies receive thousands of applications, overwhelming HR departments.
To address this, we automated the application process. Many companies require a minimum qualification of Grade 10, but our special projects bridge this gap, helping PWD access the job market.
The JOB-ABLED team is united by a shared commitment to inclusion and empowering individuals with disabilities. Each member brings a unique perspective and passion for creating lasting change.
What inspires him to do what he does:
Marius, a dedicated leader working in the disability space since 2000, empowers individuals with disabilities through innovative Exit plans. As a special school principal, he champions inclusive solutions that benefit youth, parents, and communities.
His role at JOB-ABLED:
Marius is dedicated to inclusive employment for individuals with disabilities. Receiving several awards to mention: Mpumalanga Premiers Service Excellence in 2011 for providing access to opportunities to people with disabilities (PWD's) and a similar award from SABF foundation in 2023. A former special needs school principal since 2000, he leverages his expertise to break barriers, engage companies, and drive JOB-ABLED’s growth, transforming lives through innovation and leadership.
What inspires him to do what he does?
Christiaan van den Berg, one of the founders of JobJack, is a pioneer at heart, passionate about people and making a difference. He inspires excellence through leadership, entrepreneurship, and service, driven by a genuine desire to empower others.
His role at JOB-ABLED:
Christiaan drives JOB-ABLED’s marketing strategy and overall vision. His passion for people and leadership fosters innovation, while his strategic approach expands opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
What inspires him to do what he does?
Peter Present has 36 years of experience across the public and private sectors. With an Executive MBA from UCT, he specializes in Education Management, HR, Research, and Resource Planning. Peter has led strategic initiatives that drive change and innovation in education and business.
His role at JOB-ABLED:
Peter Present offers strategic guidance, overseeing resource planning, budgets, and financial sustainability. His expertise ensures JOB-ABLED’s mission to empower individuals with disabilities through meaningful employment is met efficiently.
What inspires her to do what she does?
With a background as a special needs educator, Simone is passionate about supporting youth with disabilities. Her dedication to finding solutions for a better future drives her work at JOB-ABLED.
Her role at JOB-ABLED:
Simone manages JOB-ABLED’s daily operations, overseeing the recycling project and handling administrative tasks. Her organizational skills ensure the smooth running of the platform, making it accessible and efficient.
What inspires her to do what she does?
As a parent of a child with disabilities, Michele brings personal understanding and compassion to her role. Her commitment to creating opportunities ensures JOB-ABLED connects the right candidates with the right employers.
Her role at JOB-ABLED:
Michele is responsible for recruiting individuals with disabilities and connecting them with suitable employment opportunities. As a parent of a child with disabilities, she brings empathy and understanding to her work, ensuring the right candidates are matched with the right employers.
What inspires her to do what she does?
Anneke is sweet, calm, and always knows what she’s doing. Before joining JOB-ABLED, she worked in finance at a Special Needs School. That experience gave her a real love and passion for the work we do.
Her role at JOB-ABLED:
She is a kind person who takes care of all things finance at JOB-ABLED. She works behind the scenes, but she plays a very important role in helping us run smoothly. She understands our mission, believes in it, and puts her heart into everything. We’re lucky to have someone as caring and capable as Anneke on our team.
What inspires him to do what she does?
At JOB-ABLED, we’re inspired by individuals who lead with purpose, and Neil Blight is one of those people. Neil, a dedicated parent from the community, runs the Recycling Plant at Alta du Toit School with an energy and passion that’s impossible to miss.
His role at JOB-ABLED:
Neil approaches every task, big or small, with dedication. Whether he’s sorting materials, guiding learners, or finding new ways to improve the plant’s operations, his hands-on way makes a real difference every single day.
Together, the JOB-ABLED team is dedicated to breaking down barriers, creating meaningful employment opportunities, and fostering a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
Joshua, a former student of Alta du Toit School, received hands-on training at the school’s recycling hub through the JOB-ABLED platform. With their support, he’s taken an exciting step forward—starting his new job at MyPlas this month.
What began as a concern for his future has turned into a life-changing journey. JOB-ABLED has given Joshua the opportunity to gain independence, build confidence, and step into a brighter future. His family is truly grateful.
Nceba Sithole is a 25-year-old from Gugulethu who has been working at McDonald’s through JOB-ABLED since 2020. Diagnosed with an intellectual disability as a baby, Nceba has never let it stand in his way.
His job has allowed him to support his family, contribute to his sister’s education, and save for meaningful goals like his initiation, a sound system, a bed, and building materials for their home. He takes pride in his work, enjoys serving others, and continues to grow in both skills and independence.
I am currently doing a learnership with JOB-ABLED, and they have helped me a lot. I got promoted to do another learnership because of JOB-ABLED.
It has been a good experience, I am learning new things every day.
I am currently happy with JOB-ABLED, they are really helping me.
My workplace is very professional. The management team is helpful and always willing to assist in any way they can.
This is so exciting, you’ve done so much to help create job opportunities for people with disabilities.
I’m still enjoying my job, and my co-workers are very understanding.
I am very grateful, JOB-ABLED has helped me so much. I was unemployed for a long time, but they came through for me. They give people with disabilities real chances in life. Thank you, and keep up the great work!
I’ve gained a lot of experience, and I’m still learning and growing every day.
It has been very helpful, with their assistance, I had two successful interviews. They always follow up and check in, which is truly amazing.
This has been such a valuable learning experience. I have amazing colleagues, and the management is very caring. It’s been a wonderful journey so far.
