Meet the SAVE Team

Rinus van Raaij

Managing Director & Owner

Rinus started working for SAVE in 2006. He has thus been with the company for almost 15 years. His qualifications include a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) Degree in Civil Engineering.

 

I started my career on the conventional side of civil engineering. But I have since transitioned to almost the opposite end of the spectrum. Now I am more involved with the social aspects of construction and civil engineering. Working with affected communities and other role-players on the human side of development.

"Having worked on the conventional side of engineering, I am able to make a valuable contribution to the social side of the industry"

This includes providing social facilitation in affected communities, training and skills transfer. Assisting employees in the industry with career growth. And helping to develop small and emerging contractors.

 

Besides work, I love going on forest hikes and canoeing with my family. I also enjoy observing social, political and religious trends in society.

 

I have been happily married for almost three decades and we have three adult daughters. My family is my most treasured possession.

Ashwin Henrico Ambraal

Training Project Manager, Community & Social Facilitation  and Owner

Ashwin started working for SAVE in 2010 and has thus been with the company for over 10 years. He holds a BA degree in Public Administration and Communication Facilitation and is also a registered Education Training and Development Practices (ETDP) training facilitator and assessor.

 

I started my career at SAVE as a Junior Site Supervisor on one of their EPWP projects. This entailed upgrading the existing regional wastewater treatment works in George. I have since become an owner of SAVE and risen to my current position. A role I excel at because I love facilitating community engagement and interacting with people on our training courses.

"At SAVE 'Impacting Lives' is not just a lived ideal for clients. We also strive to make a difference in the lives of our employees"

During my time at SAVE, all my colleagues have acted as my mentors. They have helped me to grow in my chosen career path and given me the support needed to further my studies. It is with SAVE’s assistance and guidance that I gained my BA degree and other valuable career skills and knowledge.

 

My hobbies include watching sports and playing table tennis. I am a firm believer that trust is gained through honesty and professionalism.

Lauren Strauss

Education and Training Quality Assurance (ETQA) Manager

Lauren has been working at SAVE for over 8 years now. She holds a Bachelor of Education (BEd) Degree.

 

Lauren is one of the longstanding core team members of SAVE. She started out as the Training Administrator at SAVE. When she joined SAVE, she already had experience as a Training Manager in the industry.

 

She brings over 18 years of education and training related experience to SAVE. Before entering the engineering and construction industry, Lauren was a primary school teacher. Even then, she was the Head of Technology due to her affinity with technical disciplines.

 

One of her key responsibilities is overseeing the accreditation status of SAVE. She also handles internal and external moderation and ensures adherence to SETA requirements. And, she manages all aspects of learner registration and certification.

 

Work aside, she enjoys spending time with her family.

“I am a wife and mom with a passion for gardening.”

As the daughter of an engineer/construction contractor, this industry was a natural fit for Lauren

Siphiwo Clifford Mathys

Stakeholder Engagement Officer

 

Siphiwo started working at SAVE in 2014 and has thus been with the company for over 6 years. Siphiwo’s formal qualifications include a Grade 12 certificate.

 

I love my work which constantly provides me with new challenges and adventures. I am learning new things every day and sharpening my leadership skills. I am a good negotiator and excel at conflict resolution.

 

Aside from work, I love music and sports. But, my family is what keeps me whole and moulds me into who I am in life.

"I am a leader, who works with my community, youth and upcoming young artists."

I am a well-grounded Christian who teaches social and brotherly love for each other.

Sabiha Docrat

Marketing Director, Operations and Owner

Sabiha joined SAVE in 2019 and is thus the newest member of the team. Sabiha holds a post-graduate degree in Marketing Management and a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) Degree.

 

I was first introduced to SAVE in 2017 and was immediately impressed with the vision Rinus had for SAVE. When the opportunity came along to join the company I was only too glad to take up an ownership share.

"It is an honour for me to play an active part in growing SAVE and making a positive impact on people's lives in this beautiful country of ours."

Sabiha also owns her own marketing consulting firm, Trebuchet and Parachutes.

 

Besides work, I enjoy spending time with my family. I also spend time painting, gardening and participating in sports and outdoor activities.