Yenzani was founded in 2002 by Sanne Mirk, a business woman who followed her heart in 2000 by volunteering at a child abuse NPO. Her
experiences there led her to challenge her concern for children ‘returning’ to their perpetrators.
Destiny led her to Barry Bouwer, who offered his home in Midrand rent-free; on one condition - that it be used to help children in crisis.
Having secured the home, Sanne met with the Child Protection Unit of SAPS & the Dept. of Social Development to establish their needs, which was
for a temporary/emergency place of safety for children.
Sanne, with moral support from Donna Meyerson, formed “The Making it Happen Children’s Project” t/a “Yenzani”. A Section 21 Company,
Non-profit Organisation was established, pro bono auditing services secured, networking with stakeholders and fundraising began. Jacob Mphiwe
was employed and began repairing the house, a health certificate was granted and donations of second hand household goods started to roll in. Gary
Bailey pledged his financial support (later becoming our patron), as did concerned citizen Andre Pienaar.
Andrea Van Der Westhuizen, a registered nurse, volunteered her services to promote Yenzani and Gladys Leballo was employed and joined Jacob as a
caregiver/ house parent. The staff have had domestic, police, child protection, CPR and emergency first aid training. Ongoing staff
training is a priority and includes computer, time management, cultural, child care/protection and driving. Connie Motsetla & Ntsehiseng
Leballo locum as house parents cum domestic workers. Ryan Cooper (Psychologist) and Leone Kontominas (businesswoman) complete the committee.
Yenzani was officially opened by the MEC for Safety & Liaison, Ms Nomvula Mokonyane, on 4 September 2003.
Yenzani is a registered Children’s Home and a founder member of The Greater Midrand Children’s Forum and a member of SASPCAN & NACCW.
On 4 November 2004, Amos Masondo – The Mayor of Johannesburg – presented Yenzani with a Certificate of Recognition for services rendered to the
Citizens of Johannesburg Regions 1 & 2.
