The aims of the Sustainable Development Network are:
- To help NGOs become more sustainable through networking, resource mobilisation strategies; training in fundraising and social
enterprise development. - To provide useful research for NGO’s, government and the private sector which will promote and encourage sustainable development.
- To provide education and training programmes (including assistance with creating accredited training programmes) for NGOs, government and the private sector.
Mission
To empower NGOs, government and the private sector through research, education, training and through encouraging networks and partnerships that will promote sustainable solutions.
Vision
To empower NGOs, government and the private sector to work together toward more sustainable economic, environmental and social solutions.
The SA Sustainable Development Network Board
Lisa Thompson Smeddle
Founder / Executive Director SDN Group
Lisa Thompson-Smeddle is the Founder and Director of the Sustainable Development Network Group. She has over 30 years experience working in the Education, Non-Profit and AID industries in southern Africa. She has acted as a sustainability consultant to Family Health International, an Umbrella Grants Mechanism managing a $93 million USAID/PEPFAR grant in South Africa. Lisa was also the Programme Coordinator for the Sustainability Institute and course designer/lecturer (Stellenbosch University). She has managed research and development projects for the UNDP, DANIDA, Cordaid, the City of Cape Town, the University of California Berkeley and other academic institutions and donor organisations. She has a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development from Stellenbosch University and Honours degrees Sustainable Development and in Social Sciences.
Carol Beerwinkel
SDN/One Heart Executive Director
Carol’s contribution to Education started in 1972. She spent many successful,though challenging years in this noble profession teaching in places like Johannesburg, Potchefstroom, Prieska and Cape Town. In 1996 the political bug bit and she ventured into that field. Since entering the political field she has held many senior positions as chairperson or executive member of committees like Housing, Development Planning, Tourism and currently is the Shadow Minister for Education in the Western Cape Parliament. Her life goal is to leave a legacy of visible developmental growth examples and upliftment of people’s  lives and surroundings.Â
Anton Buirski
SDN Executive Director / Secretary
Anton is a corporate attorney of more than 50 years standing and is currently in practice in Cape Town. He is a graduate of both UCT and the London School of Economics. Anton is currently the chairperson of Action on Elder Abuse South Africa, an NGO and a national organisation which deals with problems of the aged. During a long professional career he has served on committees of many community projects as well as sporting bodies and brings a wealth of administrative experience to the organisation.
Johann Sym
SDN Board Member / One Heart Ambassador
Johann has worked with children and child/youth counselling for over 20 years. He has Certificates in Pastoral Work and Biblical Studies from Bethel Bible School and has completed a Certificate Course in Teacher Training through the Test Learning Centre. Johann has also worked as a Train the Trainer for the Western Cape Department of Education, providing teacher training and support throughout the Western Cape. Furthermore, he managed the One Heart volunteer programme, he acts as a One Heart teacher and school liaison and assists with all One Heart events.
Daniel Steenkamp
SDN Executive Board Member
Daniel is an executive board member of the SDN group. He is also a Senior Project Manager within the Innovative Finance Initiative. He is a Chartered Accountant (ACA, registered with the ICAEW) with extensive business experience throughout Africa and the Middle East. Daniel is an alumnus of Deloitte LLP in the United Kingdom and DaimlerChrysler AG in Germany. He is particularly passionate about Africa and concluded his MBA studies with a focus on entrepreneurial innovation in Africa. Daniel also has experience as an audit and advisory partner in serving both for-profit and non-profit organisations.