About Us

VISION

At Autism Connect, our vision is unlocking greatness in each learner through an eclectic approach of methods, which is learner specific, with the aim of reaching their full potential.

MISSION

We serve to function as a learning and resource centre within our community. We provide a specialised early programme that is Autism specific. We aim to bridge the gap through the preparatory development of learners to a school-readiness state. Our ethos at Autism Connect encompasses neurodiversity and advocacy of inclusion focusing on learner intervention.

STAFF

Nicolette

CEO

Moeneeb

Operations Manager

Raigaanah

Head of Behaviour Support

Jaden

Head of Academic Support

Adea

Skills Centre Facilitator

Triston

Sports Coach

Dorothy

Pre-Vocational Skills Facilitator

Teressa

Facilitator

Estelle

Academic Support

Ann

Office Support

Gavin

Groundsman

Divandre

Housekeeping

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BOARD

BOARD

Rosetta Cupido

More about Rosetta

Rosetta Cupido

Vice Chairperson – Autism Connect

Highest qualification: Bachelor of Education

Rosetta Cupido is the principal of Groote Schuur Hospital school with 32 years of experience in Special Needs Schools. She specializes in learning support within the inclusive schooling system. Currently, her job includes helping vulnerable learners stay within the schooling system. She is knowledgeable on Paper 6 and a fierce fighter for the rights of learners within the inclusive school environment. She taught at different special schools over the years that included both Schools of Skills and Schools for Severe Intellectually Disabled learners. Here, she gained valuable experience in how to support learners within the special needs environment.

Rosetta is currently on the executive committee of NAPOSA’s Liesbeeck Branch where she looks after the interest of teachers. She also sat on the executive committee of SANASE, a national School Governing Body for special schools. Her passion is inclusivity and removing barriers to learning.

Danielle Michaels

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Danielle Michaels

Chairperson – Autism Connect

Highest qualification: University of South Africa (UNISA)

BCompt Accounting Degree (In Progress – Currently 2nd Year)

Danielle Michaels is an accomplished Business Management Consultant, with over a decade of experience across a diverse range of sectors, including non-profit organizations, banking, insurance, and engineering. Renowned for her strategic insight and operational acumen, Danielle collaborates closely with executive leadership – particularly CEOs – to drive business growth, implement change management strategies, and optimize operational efficiency. Her expertise includes financial accounting, tax compliance, HR, and risk management. With a strong foundation from roles at SARS and Standard Bank, Danielle is skilled in income tax, VAT, PAYE, and audit preparation. Known for her integrity and problem-solving ability, and leadership, Danielle brings both expertise and passion to every project she undertakes.

Zaida Frank

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Zaida Frank

Communications Liaison – Autism Connect

Highest qualification: Bachelor of Psychology – Honours Equivalent (NQF 8)

Zaida Frank is a seasoned professional in the non-profit sector with over a decade of experience. She began her career as a registered counsellor in 2014, dedicating five years to providing support at a vocational rehabilitation centre. Subsequently, she transitioned into programme management, serving for five years at Autism Western Cape, where she contributed to various initiatives aimed at supporting individuals with autism and their families.

Currently, Zaida holds the position of Operations Manager at Little Lions Child Coaching, an organisation focused on child and community development through the normalisation of mental health conversations. In addition to her professional roles, she is pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration, aiming to enhance her management skills and business acumen.

Passionate about impactful leadership, Zaida aspires to leverage her qualifications to navigate the non-profit sector thoughtfully, bringing both operational expertise and psychosocial insights to her work.

Marline Johnson

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Marline Johnson

Secretary – Autism Connect

Highest qualification:

NQF Level 7 – Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Psychology. University of Western Cape – 2019

NQF Level 7 – bachelor’s in theology. International Christian Bible College – 2020.

Marline Johnson is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in business development. She has a proven track record of leading cross-functional teams and driving strategic initiatives to successful completion. Marline’s expertise spans various industries, including mass media, technology and finance, and She is known for her strong leadership skills, innovative problem-solving abilities, and commitment to excellence.

Marline is a devoted mother of two with a deep passion for people from all walks of life. With a heart for service, she finds joy in giving back—whether through community initiatives, acts of kindness to those around her, or simply offering a helping hand wherever she can. In her personal time, she loves cooking, reading, and losing herself in music—especially when she can dance like no one is watching. With her warmth, determination, and generous spirit, she never stops striving for success, no matter the circumstances.

Nolene Williams

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Nolene Williams

Treasurer – Autism Connect

Highest Qualification:

NQF Level 7 – bachelor’s in theology. International Christian Bible College – 2020

Bachelor’s Degree Business Admin: Unisa – In progress

With extensive experience as an Assistant Accountant at Overseas Administration Management, Bookkeeping and in Creditors and Debtors roles across various sectors, Nolene Williams has developed strong financial and administrative expertise. Nolene’s work spans diverse industries, where she consistently ensured accurate bookkeeping, effective financial reporting, and efficient creditor and debtor management.

Nolene is highly proficient in Microsoft Office, SAP, NSI Accounting, and Pastel, supporting her ability to streamline financial processes. Backed by a BCom in Business Administration, she combines academic knowledge with practical skills to deliver reliable and professional financial support.

Nolene has strong aptitude for all reconciliations, and her strength lies in her attention to detail that contributes to her meticulous processing of accurate financial results.

Nicolette Ripepi

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Nicolette Ripepi

Executive Director – Autism Connect

Relevant qualifications/courses:

Completed a Cognitive & Life coaching certification – Through the International Board of Credentialing & Educational Standards in August 2024

Completed NQF Level 5 – Public Administration Diploma through Regenesys Public School in 2023.

Nicolette Ripepi is a dedicated and passionate advocate for autism awareness and support. As the founder and Executive Director of Autism Connect NPO, she has created a safe and supportive environment for individuals with autism and their families.

A single mom to two children, Tamryn and Tyler, Nicolette’s journey began when Tyler was diagnosed with non-verbal autism in 2007. This experience sparked a desire to make a difference, leading her to leave her corporate career in supply chain management and dedicate herself to Autism Connect in 2013.

Under her leadership, Autism Connect has grown and thrived, providing vital support and services to the autism community. Nicolette’s commitment to ongoing learning and growth has earned her certifications in Public Administration and Cognitive Coaching.

Today, Nicolette continues to inspire and empower others through her work at Autism Connect, driving positive change and promoting a more inclusive world for individuals with autism and their families.”

Her extensive experience in the corporate space working in the Supply Chain Management Department at De Beers from 2007 to 2013.

Nicolette started off her administration background working in the Purchasing Department at SA, Nylon Spinners starting in 1995 to 2007.

Josevina Philander

More about Josevina

Josevina Philander

Project Oversight/Strategic Lead – Autism Connect

Highest qualification:

CMI UK Level 7 (SA equivalent) NQF Level 9 – master’s in strategic management & leadership through SVT Vocational Training (UK) – 2024

Relevant qualifications/certifications:

Project Management Professional (PMP@) – 2020

Josevina Philander is an experienced Project Management Professional with over 14 years of experience leading complex initiatives across diverse sectors, including Information Technology, Telecommunications, Engineering, Government, and Financial Services. She holds the globally recognised Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI) and has earned a CMI UK Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Strategic Management & Leadership, equivalent to an NQF Level 9 qualification in South Africa. In her current role as Senior Programme Manager at Sanlam, Josevina oversees the enterprise-wide Business Continuity Programme across all Sanlam businesses in South Africa and the broader African region. She also serves as a Project Portfolio Manager, offering strategic oversight and guidance to project managers within the Infrastructure Platforms and Operations portfolio. Josevina is an Associate Member of Project Management South Africa (PMSA) and served two consecutive terms on the Western Cape Executive Committee. Passionate about professional development and community upliftment, she dedicates her time outside of work to mentoring and coaching students pursuing project management qualifications. She is also an active volunteer at Autism Connect, reflecting her commitment to social impact and inclusive development.