SERVING
THE RESIDENTS
OF WESTLAKE
ABOUT
OUR JOURNEY
In the late 1990s, land in the Westlake area was redeveloped into an office park, residential estate, and school precinct. As part of this development, provision was made to house families who had been living informally nearby.
In 2001, 650 semi-detached RDP homes were built, forming what became known as Westlake Village. While living conditions improved, many residents still faced unemployment, and financial hardship. To generate income informal dwellings were added to properties and rented out, leading to population growth and increased household density.
In response to the growing social challenges within the community, 6 local churches* established the Westlake United Church Trust (WUCT), with the vision of serving and uplifting the residents of Westlake Village.
A loan enabled the old Commando Hall to be renovated into a community facility focused on education, healthcare, and community support services. In 2002, the Emmanuel Educare creche opened with 35 children. It now accommodates 180 learners (ages 3-6) across six classrooms.
Over time, special programmes were started to support orphans, vulnerable children, and families facing difficult life circumstances.
Today, the community has grown to almost 20,000 residents living in a combination of low-cost housing and informal structures. WUCT stands alongside them as a refuge, a support system, and a catalyst for positive change – committed to treating every person with dignity, irrespective of race, origin, status, or age.
*Church of the Holy Spirit Kirstenhof, St Martin’s Anglican Church Bergvliet, Christ Church Constantia, Bergvliet Congregational Church, Trinity Presbyterian Church Meadowridge, Mountainview Baptist Church, Lakeside.
ABOUT
MANAGEMENT
Pieter Greyling General Manager
As a retired Methodist Minister and 15 years running his own business Pieter brings the perfect blend of knowledge, experience and passion to run an NGO like WUCT.
Louette Maccallum Health & Wellness
Co-ordinator
Louette is a registered nurse and midwife with over 40 years of experience, as well as 5 years as a Community Health Worker.
Amy Classen Community Worker
Amy worked for the City as an administrator for 5 years. She also has experience working with children, youth, and community programmes and is the founder of Artsy Amy.
Monique Smit Principal Emmanuel Educare
Monique is a passionate Early Childhood Development educator with a National Diploma in ECD and over 15 years of teaching experience.
Steve Gittins Treasurer
Steve is a retired Accountant with 42 years of local and international experience in the corporate world. He represents the Tokai Methodist Church in his role as Treasurer.
Alastair Grey Onsite Accountant
Alastair has a B.Compt. and PGDM qualification. He has worked in the non-profit space for more than 20 years.
ABOUT
TRUSTEES
David Walsh Chairman
David is a landscaper who previously worked in IT for many years. Representing the Church of the Holy Spirit (The Life Centre), his focus is the establishment of a robust, ethical organisation that is transparently managed for the benefit of the community.
Di Forrester
Di is a member of St Martin’s Church and has been involved in Home-Based Care since the beginning of WUCT, managing the reporting and administration aspects. She brings valuable understanding and relationships with government & community together with a thorough knowledge of HIV/AIDS and community development.
Ann Albrecht
Ann lives in Westlake and has a background in health services, education and human resource management. She now works for the City of Cape Town and brings a range of skills and insights into issues affecting the local community. Her input is a highly-valued link with the local community.
Fundisile Mbesi
Fundisile has worked as a prison warden for 18 years. He was the chairperson of Emmanuel Educare School Governing Body for many years. He lives at Pollsmoor and provides valuable local life insights. He has a special interest in supporting the youth.