Gerda Evans attended Pretoria University, completing a B.Com Degree, Majoring in Economics and Marketing. This led to a position as Junior Diplomat in the Department of Foreign Affairs Economic Development Division. This division, went on to became the African Development Bank as we know it today.
As part of a powerful team, Gerda spearheaded several successful development programs in Africa, meeting heads of State and interesting individuals. Her duties mainly orchestrating meetings between Heads of State, official go between and minute taking.
Whilst on a posting to Mozambique, she met and married her husband, Rusty Evans, who was promoted to the title of Director General in the Department of Foreign Affairs. In her capacity as Spouse to the Director General, she accompanied her husband on several trips with President Nelson Mandela, in Europe, Americas, and Africa.
In this capacity she was Goodwill ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, and was responsible for many fundraising and charity events.
An Event organising company was a natural progression and Events Africa (Pty) Ltd. was conceptualised. Gerda’s fundraising and event organising capabilities was honed whilst overseeing many a big event, not least Mr Mandela’s inauguration. The welcoming back of South Africa into the international arena, made way for state banquets, and soccer functions, all under her watch full eye.
A Sabbatical to Swaziland followed for 10 years, raising her 2 daughters, who attended the International School, Waterford Kamhlaba. In Swaziland she was appointed as an outside consultant to do event organising for MTN as well as many community development programs.
Starting a farming operation, and coordination a community tourism project to name a few projects.
Nelson Mandela“There is no passion to be found playing small – in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living.”
The name of her company – i-Sizeze Africa – relates back to her time spend in her beloved Swaziland, where she still has a piece of land, sponsor local soccer teams, assist in suistainable agricultural projects and is closely involved with community development.
Today, Gerda concentrates on CPD (Continuing Professional Development) in all it guises. Live training, Articles, and Online CPD through the newly developed BuiltEd online platform.
Gerda has also developed and trademarked a Professional Registration Coaching program to assist not only professional in the Built Environment, but also young Candidates climbing the career ladder. A Structured Mentorship Program forms part of one of the many programs she offers.
With her entrepreneurial and organisational skills, Gerda has identified a need for the development and implementation of CPD Policy at Voluntary Organisations and Councils – both statuary and non statuary. I-Sizeze Africa is aiming to become the expert in Policy, Planning and Implementation of CPD under the guidance of Gerda and her Capable Team.
Learn more about my company and the services we offer.
Some images from the past of people I’ve met & places I’ve been.
