A Tribute to Our Leaders — and a Welcome to the Future

For many years, DCASA has been strengthened by individuals who didn’t wait to be asked — they simply raised their hands and stood up to serve. These are the people who worked quietly behind the scenes, giving their time, knowledge, and energy to ensure that the association and its members remained supported and represented.

To Eugene Cilliers, Simon Karanja, and Nadia de Weerdt — our original giants, our OGs — we say thank you.

You have each given countless hours, attended long meetings, and faced the challenges others often stepped away from. You gave your best without expectation of recognition or reward, and your commitment to DCASA and its mission has shaped the foundation we continue to build on today.

At times, stepping back is part of moving forward — a moment to allow new voices to rise and continue the legacy you’ve built. With sincere gratitude, we acknowledge your dedication, passion, and the integrity with which you served. This is not goodbye — it’s see you again. You remain mentors, guides, and the steady hands who have made it possible for new leadership to take the baton and run forward.

Introducing the Newly Elected NEC (2026–2028)

The following individuals have been voted in as the DCASA National Executive Committee for 2026–2027:

1. Mauritz van den Heever
2. Drisha Pillay
3. Reinhard Pettenburger
4. Casper le Grange
5. Ancil van Heerden

We extend our sincere thanks to each of you for putting your names forward and showing your willingness to serve. Votes were verified, proxies were counted, and associated member votes were excluded to ensure a fair and transparent process.

To our new NEC — congratulations. You inherit a proud legacy built on integrity, fairness, and unity. May you lead with passion and purpose, ensuring that DCASA continues to represent the heart of the debt counselling profession. The journey ahead will be challenging at times, but every step will bring us closer to our shared vision — an ethical, professional, and respected industry.

Congratulations to our new & seasoned leaders — and thank you to those who have paved the way. Together, we keep the wheel turning. – Vanessa Johst (Operations Manager – DCASA) 4.11.25