Group Leaders
Meet the group leaders at Bless a Baby
Our New Bless A Baby Ministry Leader
My name is Mariëtte Strydom — child of God, wife, mom and occasional runner. As a family, we’ve walked through many seasons and changes over the past couple of years. One of those brought us to Cape Town just over four years ago, and about two and a half years ago we found our spiritual home here at El Shaddai.
Another season that came to a close for me last year was my time at the United Nations Children’s Fund, where I spent almost 14 years in programme management in the Child Health and Nutrition sector. After a period of rest, just as I was preparing to explore what the next chapter might hold, I felt the Lord pulling my heart towards Bless a Baby, so when the call came from Glynn to ask if I’d consider getting involved, it was a confirmation of what my next season would be.
From a young age, I dreamed of dedicating my work to social upliftment and community support. It is therefore with deep gratitude and great excitement that I step into the role of leading Bless a Baby. This organisation has been built on the dedication of many hands and hearts, and I am humbled to continue the work of serving mothers, babies, and families in need. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated volunteers and health partners as we continue ensuring every baby is welcomed with dignity and care. Your generosity remains the heartbeat of this mission, and I look forward to partnering with you in this next chapter.
Tuesday
I love ❤️ volunteering as I have met such awesome, amazing people specially in our group🙏. We try and go every Tuesday/Wednesday for a get together for lunch and spend time together.
My hobby is making pickles 🥒 and Atchar and love trying new recipes.
Wednesday
I lead the Wednesday morning group . They are a special group of ladies who have become close friends. We often go for sushi after our session. Collection of bags happen on a Wednesday and I love interacting with the drivers from the WCDH, seeing how soft these grown men become when they enter the workroom. I also manange the Bless a Baby phone and love it when new moms send pics of their newborn babies and how appreciative they are of the bags that they received. It just warms my heart and it makes doing what we’re doing so worth while.
My drink of choice when at a coffee shop is Chia latte. I just love it.
I’m from Cape Town.
I started by only donating items to BaB but then I joined as a volunteer in 2017 … this has been a wonderful experience ever since knowing how this amazing organization can make a difference in these babies lives.
My hobby is crafting altho I mainly knit and sew for BaB now.
Thursday
Bless a Baby is God’s mission, I am just a volunteer, and a temporary leader on Thursdays. Favourite scripture is Psalm 91:1-4
Saturday
When I relocated to Cape Town, I volunteered at Tears in Fish Hoek before joining the Saturday students group at Bless a Baby. My favorite thing is to give the teddy bears a big hug before they are sealed in the BaB bag with the little ribbon.
What I love most about Bless a Baby is that the smallest act of kindness can have such a big impact. Packing a bag may seem simple, but knowing it can bring comfort and support to a new parent during a difficult time makes it incredibly meaningful. I’ve also met some amazing people along the way who share the same heart for serving others.
My favourite scripture is Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” When I’m not working or volunteering, I enjoy staying active, whether that’s in the gym, hiking, or just finding an excuse to be outdoors.
As for coffee… a double-shot espresso. Life is busy, my personality is strong, and I like my coffee to keep up. ☕😄