the ewb team

I have dedicated decades of my life to the country’s most disenfranchised young people and their families. My years in child and youth development, training, mentoring and supervising, together with my experience as the founder of Building Bridges, an after-school organisation that provides psychosocial and educational support have equipped and impassioned me in my role at Education without Borders.

A passionate educationist dedicated to transforming lives in underserved communities, I employ innovative teaching methods, especially in mathematics, am committed to breaking barriers and to empowering learners especially those in challenging environments. My motto ‘Every child matters’ and my belief that every child can be successful underpins the approach and values that I bring to Education without Borders as its director.

With a background in retail management and extensive leadership experience, Deidre Cupido brings a wealth of knowledge in team development and people management. She completed three years of Social Work studies and has been actively involved in children’s ministry for over 20 years, nurturing and supporting young people in their personal and spiritual growth. Deidre is passionate about creating opportunities for children and young people to discover and develop their potential. Joining EwB has allowed her to live out this passion by making a meaningful impact in the lives of learners and helping to build brighter futures within the community.

I grew up in a poor, disadvantaged community and felt strongly that one day I needed to help other kids from similar backgrounds to mine. I began my work life as a domestic and was fortunate to be asked to help their children with their homework. Here my love for education began. I joined the Nobantu School aftercare homework programme and then Education without Borders – thereby achieving my dream!

Having been raised in a community like Bellville South, I bring my personal lived-experience to Education without Borders. As a community and family worker, I have worked with youth in a variety of contexts and have facilitated leadership camps, both in South Africa and the United States. I am now passionately dedicated to executing the vision and mission of Education without Borders, an impeccable team and outstanding organisation of which I feel blessed to be a part.

Having grown up in Bellville South, I understand the realities and challenges many young people face, as well as the incredible potential that exists within our communities. After initially pursuing a BSc degree, I began tutoring with EwB, where I discovered my passion for working with children and serving the community. This experience inspired me to pursue my studies in Early Childhood Development and Learning. My journey with EwB began as a tutor, where I developed a deep passion for empowering young people through education. Today, I am privileged to be part of a team committed to empowering the next generation by supporting and developing tutors to create meaningful learning experiences for learners. Alongside my role at EwB, I also provide private tutoring. I am passionate about helping young people grow in confidence, develop a love for learning, and reach their full potential.

As a person who grew up in a disadvantaged community, I understand the struggle that young people are facing and know how easy it is to be demotivated. My life’s calling is in community and youth development. I am passionate about our work, as EwB provides exactly the support our young people need, to develop confidence and belief in themselves academically, and to find hope, optimism and positivity in their lives.