We are proud to share that our CEO, Adri Marais, has been named a winner of the 2025 Mail & Guardian Power of Women Awards in the Education category.

This prestigious national honour recognises South African women who are driving transformation in their fields. The award shines a light on Adri’s lifelong dedication to unlocking human potential through access, purpose, and opportunity.

“Every day is fast-paced and full of purpose,” says Adri. “The work is fundamentally about leadership — the better one can steward the cause, the more effective everyone becomes.”

Before joining Christel House SA in 2018, Adri co-founded  TSiBA (Tertiary School in Business Administration), a not-for-profit business school offering full scholarships to students pursuing a BBA in Entrepreneurial Leadership. Under her leadership, TSIBA launched its BBA and Postgraduate Diploma in Small Enterprise Consulting, reshaping entrepreneurial learning in South Africa.

Leading Transformation at Christel House SA

Since taking the helm, Adri has strengthened Christel House SA’s impact and reach:

• 99% matric pass rate average since inception
• 95% of alumni studying, employed or both

Adri visualised and developed:

• Simunye Project, bringing learners from 12 schools together across socio-economic divides
• Youth Bridge Initiative, supporting unemployed youth into meaningful work
• Expansion of a second high school, opening opportunities for 300 more students

Her leadership continues to drive measurable change, creating systems that empower young South Africans to shape their own futures.

Recognising Women Who “Turn the Impossible into Unstoppable”

Now in its 19th year, the Mail & Guardian Power of Women Awards celebrate women who are changing the face of South Africa through purpose and perseverance. Adri embodies this year’s theme — “Turning the Impossible into Unstoppable.”

The award was accepted on her behalf by Natalie Lazaris, Development Chief of Staff at Christel House International, during a ceremony in Johannesburg, held in October 2025.

Read more about Adri’s inspiring journey in the Mail & Guardian feature here: https://powerofwomen.mg.co.za/adri-marais-2025/