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CURRICULUM VITAE
SHÉRI BRYNARDOnly person with Down syndrome with a
diploma in education (Educare) in the world.January 2017
www.sheribrynard.co.za
+27(0) 83 415 0459
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CURRICULUM VITAE
PERSONAL DETAILS
NAME: Shéri Alida Brynard
CALLED: Shéri
AGE: 35
PLACE OF BIRTH: Bloemfontein
DATE OF BIRTH: 15 March 1982
ID: 8203150004085
MEDICAL CONDITION:Down syndrome: Trisomy 21
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
Martie du Plessis High School (the only learner with Down syndrome ever to be admitted)
Pre-primary to Grade 7: Ordinary school curriculum, first person in South Africa to receive a National grade 10 certificate.
Grade 8 to 10: Vocational curriculum
2000 Passed Grade 10 in the vocational curriculum (National Diploma)
Motheo College (the only learner with Down syndrome ever to be admitted, based on Grade 10 diploma)
2005 Passed the N3 course (Technical Matriculation Certificate, grade 12)
2006 Passed the N4 course
2007 Passed the N5 course
2008 Passed the N6 certificate course in Educare, the highest academic qualification at a technical college. Then she her practical teaching hours, before she received her diploma.
2009 Received a diploma in Educare at Motheo College
Shéri is the only South African learner with Down syndrome who has passed a National Technical College Diploma in South Africa without having been granted any concessions. She sat National Examinations, which were marked by nationally appointed assessors. This remarkable achievement earned her a nomination for a special award by Motheo College.
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Sheri is also the only person with Down syndrome who has acquired an education diploma, without any concessions being made, in the world. She had to do exactly the same work and was evaluated externally, exactly the same way the other students were evaluated.
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND PRIZES
November 1999
Achiever of the Month and Achiever of the Year in SANLAM Netnews
This achievement is remarkable, because Shéri was selected as Achiever of the Year over contenders such as Hansie Cronjé.
2009
Ewald Fichard Special Academic Award, awarded at the Motheo Further Education and Training College diploma ceremony
Awarded the highest prestige award from the South African Down Syndrome Association for the highest academic achievement attained by a person with Down syndrome in South Africa. Prize awarded by Helen Zille, Premier of the Western Cape.
2010:
Nominated as Bloemfontein Resident of the Year, a first for a person with Down syndrome in South Africa
Chosen by Down Syndrome South Africa (DSSA) as representative of adults with Down syndrome on the Down Syndrome International Board
Nominated for a special national academic award for people with disabilities.
2011:
October: She addressed and motivated more than 1 000 matric learners from across the Free State at the spring school hosted by Free State Technikon
Appears on the webpage of Down Syndrome International as international ambassador for Down syndrome, representing all people with Down syndrome worldwide.
27 October: Received the Presidential award (the highest award) for people who have made a contribution to the lives of mentally handicapped people in South Africa. This is a national award presented at a gala event of the Hamlet Foundation in Johannesburg, and the first time ever that a person with a disability received it.
2012
8 February: She is the keynote and motivational speaker at the Southern Africa area conference (covering nine countries) of Countrywomen of the World, in Maseru, Lesotho. Countrywomen of the World is the world’s largest organisation for rural women, with more than nine million members across 72 countries.
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July 2012: Chosen out of more than 1 400 nominations as one of 15 Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year 2012 finalists. She went on to win this competition in her category, “Young Movers”, and became the first Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year with a disability as well as the first winner ever to receive a standing ovation.Sheri won the competition in her category, “Young Movers”, and became the first Checkers “Woman of the Year” with a disability
Article in the launch magazine of Down Syndrome International (DSi), Chuks Etuka, after the editor of DSi News responded as follows to Shéri’s story:“I would like to say thank you for your entry with the wonderful story of Sheri your daughter. The team have taken it in turns to read her story, and it has been unanimously decided that she and her story embody the very essence of the vision that is the Newsletter. As such, with your permission, we would like to publish the article in our debut edition.”
August 2012: Auditioned for the television soap Binneland, and was subsequently cast in a speaking and acting
role – another first for a person with Down syndrome in South Africa. The eight episodes in which she appeared were broadcast from 31 July to 9 August.
15-17 August 2012: She delivered a keynote speech during the opening ceremony of the International Down Syndrome Congress, which is held every three years, earning her a standing ovation and many invitations to speak worldwide
21 August: Selected by Down Syndrome International to receive the World Down Syndrome Day Award in recognition of her incredible efforts to change the lives and perceptions of people with Down syndrome, which was presented to her at a gala event during the Down Syndrome International conference in August
29 August: Chosen to be honoured by Tribute, a KwaZulu-Natal-based organisation that pays tribute to people with disabilities in South Africa who make a difference in the lives of others. She was invited to a gala dinner to receive the award, which is a National Award.
In addition, Shéri still appears on the webpage of Down Syndrome International as international ambassador for Down syndrome, representing all people with Down syndrome worldwide.
November: Chosen by the Women Agricultural Union of the Limpopo province as their Personality of the Year 2013. She will attend their conferences and some of their meetings.
End of November 2012:
Sheri could donate R20 000 for school uniforms (for the learners without sufficient funds) and another R6 000 for teaching aids in the school for learning disabilities (Lettie Fouché Centre in Bloemfontein) where she teaches. She could do this because of the money she received from “Shoprite Checkers” when she became “Woman of the year”, in her category.
4 December 2012:
Sheri was chosen by the National Department of People with Disabilities and invited by the President of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma, to deliver a speech at the International Disabilities day in Nelspruit, South Africa.
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There were more than 3 000 people present. After her speech Mr Zuma and the ministers attending gave her a standing ovation and Mr Zuma requested to meet her. A part of this speech was shown on National Television (SABC-News) that evening.
The President of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma asked to meet Sheri after her speech to more than 3 000 people including the president and about 10 ministers and vice ministers of South Africa.
The TV-program where Sheri was interviewed live (the production Kwêla) was broadcasted again in December and was chosen as one of the 10 best and best received interviews on Kwêla, in 2012.
In an article in Huisgenoot/YOU magazine, Sheri was chosen as the second most inspiring person in South Africa for 2012.
2013:
Sheri made a donation of R 15 000, which was given to Lettie Fouche school for learners with special needs, because Sheri spoke at a meeting of “The Insure Group Holdings Managers” in Johannesburg. This donation will be repeated in the years to follow and gives meaning to her life.
Sheri did the keynote speech at the International Down syndrome conference in New York, in the United Nations Building. The speech was translated in 3 languages and transmitted on U-Tube over the world. It received more than 40 000 hits. She also received the only standing ovation of the day.
The TV program “Against all odds” choose the program of Sheri (in 2012) to be broadcasted again in 2013 on another channel because of the positive feedback she received the previous year. They also made another which will be broadcasted on the 25th December 2013 and 1st of January 2014 Sheri is again nominated as Bloemfonteiner of the Year because of the work she is doing nationally and internationally to change perceptions of society about people with Intellectual disabilities. Sheri receives the following award from the Premier of the Free State: “Most outstanding youth. Best Achiever Award” on National and International level in the Free State, during the Youth Day festivities. Sheri visits the offices of Downs Syndrome International (Normansfield), outside London. This is always a highlight in her life. Sheri has speaks at the University of Canterbury, outside London, UK. Dr Andre Strydom invited Sheri and her mother to become part of research he is doing on Down syndrome in London, UK. He is the HEFCE Clinical Senior Lecturer in Intellectual Disabilities UCL Mental Health Sciences Unit in London. She also visited Prof's Hardy en Fischer of the UCL, who explained research that is been done on Downs and where Sheri will be able to assist. Sheri was officially invited to be part of a research project on Down syndrome in London by Prof Dean Nizetic, from Queen Mary’s University in London. He is famous for being part of the team that first sequenced chromosome 21 and is now doing cellular research using cells from people with DS to see what we can learn about differences in cellular function, which could point the way to new treatments for problems such as Alzheimer’s disease. Sheri was been nominated for the “ORDER OF BAOBAB”. Sheri was invited by Gopal Mitra of UNICEF in New York, which is being hosted by UNICEF in New York. Sheri was invited to do a keynote at the Nelson Mandela Centre for Memory. They’re hosting an event in Johannesburg for mental health awareness. Her co-speaker is Prof J Jansen, rector of the University of the Free State.
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Sheri was a finalist for a National Disability Award, 2013. Invited to the Award function on 2 December in Port Elizabeth.
2014
30 January Sheri was again part of the following research done in London:
With the Down syndrome population now approaching eight million, it is important to understand the nature and cause of the AD-like dementia that can occur in this syndrome. The aim is to understand dementia in Down syndrome at the neurological, cognitive, behavioral, cellular and genetic levels, which will also inform our general understanding of Alzheimer's disease.
February: Sheri played an acting role in the TV production “Binneland” again.
26 January: She visit London and speak to the community in Guilford.
31 January: Sheri speaks at a secondary private school outside London, at assembly, to motivate the learners to make the best of their opportunities. The name of the school is: Lord Wandsworth College and it is in Hampshire.
February: Sheri met with two ladies from the UK, Sunette Oosthuizen and Kathy Riov. They want Sheri to speak to the “Special Olympics” team of the UK and also talk at different schools in the UK to try to change perceptions about people with intellectual disabilities.
15 May: She did a key note speech at an ECD and Learner Inclusion conference in Johannesburg, Emperors’ Palace.
26 June: Invitation to the Childs World Conference in Wales (UK) to give the main Conference Banquet keynote presentation (at which all delegates, senior university staff and external guests was present).
9 July: Invited to do a key note speech at a he International Africa EDU Week Conference in the SANTON convention Centre, Johannesburg.
27 August: Sheri does a key note at the “Conference for woman with disabilities” organised by the The Deputy Minister for the Department of Social Development, Hon. Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, who hosted the Conference.
11-13 December: Deliver a paper at an “Education Symposium” in Oxford, UK. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
When in London again: Invited to speak to the learners of the St Georges College, an independent secondary school in Weybridge and at their Clubhouse, a brand new day service facility for SLD young adults, based in a secluded corner on the campus of St Georges College.
2015
21 January: Delivered a speech at a function for international guests and invited speakers at Israel Elwyn’s Harry and Jeanette Weiberg Retree Center for seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Jerusalem.
22 January: Delivered a paper at 4th International Conference on Pediatric Chronic Diseases, Disability and Human Development (ICCD), in Jerusalem, Israel. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
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25/26 March: Sheri delivered a speech at the international “Women in Academic Leadership” conference in Johannesburg.
26 April she spoke at the Rotary District Conference outside Bloemfontein.
1-5 July: Delivered a spotlight speech at the 2015 European Conference Series in Thistle Brighton, Brighton, UK. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
18 August: Delivered a key note speech at the Panchayat session for adults with Down syndrome at the International Down Syndrome Congress in India.
19 August: Delivered a key note during the opening ceremonies, at the International Down Syndrome Congress in India, which is held every three years.
2 October: Sheri delivered a key note speech at the First South African Symposium on Teacher Education for Inclusion, which was held in Potchefstroom.
2 October: Sheri was awarded the Optentia Award at the First South African Symposium on Teacher Education for Inclusion, which was held in Van der Bijl Park.
The Optentia award acknowledges the contributions of individuals and institutions that show virtuous behaviour in the Southern African context. Virtuous behaviour has three characteristics: • Human impact: associated with flourishing and moral character, human strength, self-control, and resilience, and with meaningful human purpose. • Moral goodness: represents what is good, right, and worthy of cultivation. • Social betterment: produces benefit to others regardless of reciprocity or reward.
12 October: Sheri delivered a “public lecture” with Prof Philip Hallinger of the USA and Thailand in Johannesburg, on the Soweto campus van die University of Johannesburg. This was organised by the Department of Education Leadership and Management and the Education Leadership Institute of the University of Johannesburg
29 October: Delivered a paper at the 2015 South African Education Research Association (SAERA) Conference (the biggest education conference in South Africa). First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
2016
She addressed the IBSC (International Boys Schools' Coalition) Conference which takes place from 10-12 March 2016 in Johannesburg.
20-22 June: Invited to address the World Conference on Community Nursing in Cape Town.
25 June: Invited to address an Education conference on 25 June in Botswana.
12-16 July: She qualified to act in a two person production, at the Free State Art Festival on the campus of the University of the Free State. This production was was one of the best attended during the festival and she received standing ovations every time.
July: Invited to be a member of the Presidential Working group on Disabilities of South Africa. The chairperson of this committee is the State President and all the ministers and Directors Generals of South Africa as well as the Presidency Officials and leaders in the disability sector of Souty Africa is on the working group.
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July: Invited to be an ambassador for National Casual. Casual Day Ambassador is seen as someone refered to as an “influencer” – a person that is making a positive change in society. This person represents our Casual Day brand and is someone who believes in equal rights, inclusion and diversity for persons with disabilities. The role will entail supporting them in their Public Relations initiatives which will include radio, TV and newspaper interviews. They are often ask for representatives of Casual Day to be interviewed and they send our ambassadors for these interviews.
She played lead role in a two person production, at the Free State Art Festival on the campus of the University of the Free State, for which they received standing ovations every time.The show was evaluated and accepted by a panel of judges, to be performed at the Art Festival in Bloemfontein.
Sheri wrote a book about her life and with the help of a writer who will turn this book into a story, the manuscript was accepted by Lux Verbi and will be launched in July 2017.
5-7 August: Invited to do a key note speech at the 10th European Down syndrome Congress in Istanbul. The conference was cancelled, due to political unrest.
15-17 August: Invited as renowned speaker to the World nursing and healthcare Conference in London, UK.
17-19 October: She delivered a key note speech at the "9th Euro Nursing and Medicare Summit” which was held in Rome, Italy from 17-19th October 2016 with the theme "Exploring latest innovations in nursing and healthcare".
COURSES and public speeches at CONFERENCES
2009 Attended a three-day snap course presented by Annalize van Rijswijk on the stimulation of autistic children
26 October: Delivered the opening address at the national South African Neuro-developmental Therapy Association (SANDTA) Conference for Occupational and Physiotherapists
2012 27 August: Delivered opening address at the Annual National Speech Therapy and Audiology Forum, Bloem Spa Hotel
25 October: Keynote speaker at the Health and Welfare Sectoral Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) annual general meeting
2013 5 August: Speaks at a leadership summed: Women in Leadership (WiL) at the Convention Centre, Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg.
23 September: Sheri has been invited by Gopal Mitra of UNICEF in New York, to attend a youth summit (Global Partnership on Children with Disabilities), which is being hosted by UNICEF in New York.
8/9 October: Invited to speak at a conference of Rennies Travel in Gold Reef City in Johannesburg.
2014 Attended 5 international and national conferences as key note speaker.
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11-13 December: Delivered a paper at an “Education Symposium” in Oxford, UK. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
2015
Attended 12 international and national conferences as key note speaker.
2016
Attended and will attend six international conferences as speaker/key note speaker.
26/27 July: Sheri attended the Presidential Working group on Disabilities of South Africa. The chairperson of this committee is the State President and all the ministers and Directors Generals of South Africa as well as the Presidency Officials and leaders in the disability sector of Souty Africa is on the working group. She also addressed this meeting to illustrate the feelings of a person with Down syndrome.
15-17 August: Sheri addressed the 9th World nursing and healthcare Conference in London, UK. Her speech was chosen as the highlight of the conference. She was immediately invited to do a keynote again at the next conference in Berlin, in 2017.
17-19 October: She did a key note speech at the "9th Euro Nursing and Medicare Summit” which was held in Rome, Italy from 17-19th October 2016 with the theme "Exploring latest innovations in nursing and healthcare".
2017
1 April: Invited to present a half day workshop of the Belmatt Healthcare Training group in London.
5 April: Invited to do a key note address at a conference of the Royal Society of Medicine in London.
8 April: Invited to present a full day workshop of the Belmatt Healthcare Training group in London.
10-12 July: Invited to do a key note address at the 10th World nursing and healthcare Conference in Berlin, Germany.
CAREER
2001 Appointed as assistant at Smiley Kids Nursery School in Bloemfontein
2001-2008 Student at Motheo College
2007-2017 Assistant teacher at the pre-primary school of the Lettie Fouché Centre in Bloemfontein
2010-2014 Has acted as facilitator, with the help of a team, to implement the self-advocacy movement in the Free State
Included in a research project of the University of the Free State, which aims to assist all learners with learning disabilities
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COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT in the form of public speeches
1996-April 2017
Motivational speaker: Sheri has spoken more than 480 times all over South Africa, New York, Canterbury, London, Jerusalem, Wales, Oxford, India and Rome. The invitations are still coming in nearly every day.
1996: Guest speaker at Petrusburg High School: “How I experience my handicap”
1998: Guest speaker on the same topic at the Nellie Swart Ladies’ Club, and also recited a poem
Played a piano solo and recited a poem at a morning tea for ladies hosted by the Wilgehof-West congregation , Bloemfontein.
Participated in the Kovsies Community Development and Outreach Programme (KOVSGEM) charity concert hosted at Martie du Plessis High School, Bloemfontein.1999 Guest speaker at a number of Women’s Agricultural Union branches in Bloemfontein and surrounds, where she also recited poems
Participated in the KOVSGEM charity concert hosted at Martie du Plessis High School, Bloemfontein.Guest speaker at a number of churches, where she also recited poems 2000 Participated in the KOVSGEM charity concert in the Sand du Plessis Theatre, cast in the part of Queen Elizabeth II of England, Bloemfontein.
Guest speaker at the University of the Free State Ladies’ Club, and also recited a poem
2001 Speaker at the Dutch Reformed Church, Winburg
Speaker at a ladies’ tea hosted at Martie du Plessis High School, Bloemfontein.Speaker at a business women’s breakfast sponsored by SANLAM, Johannesburg.Interviewed by the radio station RSG about being a handicapped member of an otherwise non-handicapped family
Speaker at a student breakfast hosted at the university residence Sonnedou, University of the Free StateSpeaker at a parents’ evening hosted at Martie du Plessis High School, Bloemfontein.Speaker at a women’s day hosted by President Brand Primary School, Bloemfontein.Guest speaker at the annual congress of the Insurance Institute of South Africa, Bloemfontein.2006 Keynote speaker at a fundraising function at Fancourt, George, attended by a variety of guests
2007 Keynote speaker at a ladies’ morning at Jim Fouchè High School in Bloemfontein
2008
Keynote speaker at a motivational evening hosted by the Hospital Park Dutch Reformed Church in Bloemfontein
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning hosted at Tweespruit, and also recited two poems
Recited two poems at a concert hosted at Striata retirement village in Bloemfiontein
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Keynote speaker at a conference of the National Professional Teachers’ Organisation of South Africa (NAPTOSA) Free State, hosted in Bloemfontein.
2009
Keynote speaker at the Women’s World Day of Prayer at the Heuwelkruin Dutch Reformed in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at the Women’s World Day of Prayer at the Heuwelkruin Dutch Reformed Church, Bloemfontein
Keynote speaker at a meeting hosted for the women of the Free State Agricultural Association, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a men’s evening to raise funds for learners with special needs at Lettie Fouché School in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a NAPTOSA Northen Cape conference, Kimberley.
Motivational speaker at Dr Brümer School in Bloemfontein function to motivate learners to work and study.
Motivational speaker at a morning tea function at Olympia School in Heidedal to raise funds for the school.
Keynote speaker at a gala evening themed “Never give up” hosted by Old Mutual in Lichtenburg, planned around Shéri.
Motivational speaker at the year-end function of the Elna van der Walt Ballet School in Bloemfontein.
Presented prizes at a games day for intellectually disabled people in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a Standard Bank golf day for the Free State district in Bloemfontein.
Speaker at a ladies’ event in Reddersburg, motivating audience never to give up and to make the best of their situation
2010
Keynote and motivational speaker at staff function of SANLAM Northern Cape area, Upington.
Motivational speaker at Excelsior Ladies’ Club.
Motivational speaker at Lux Mundi Church in Pretoria.
Motivational speaker at a function of Heuwelsig Church in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at Nellie Swart Ladies’ Club Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a Voortrekker meeting in Bloemfontein.
Main speaker at the National Down syndrome Awareness Day in Johannesburg.
Motivational speaker at a religious function of the residence Roosmaryn, University of the Free State.
Motivational speaker at staff meeting of SANLAM Western Cape area, Cape Town.
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Motivational speaker at South African congregation in London, United Kingdom, as a person with Down syndrome who has never given up.
Motivational speaker at SANLAM conference in Johannesburg, attended by delegates from across the country.
Motivational speaker at a fundraising function of Kroonstad High School
Motivational speaker at the launch of self-advocacy in the Free State in Bloemfontein, which movement she will facilitate in the province. This is an international initiative through which Shéri will assist other adults with Down syndrome to become less dependent and more aware of their rights.
Delivered address to final-year students in Occupational Therapy, University of the Free State, at the invitation of the Head of Department: Occupational Therapy.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ day, Petrusburg.
Motivational speaker at a conference of the Women’s Agricultural Union (WAU), Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a youth summit at Sentraal High School in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a Liberty Life seminar, Kroonstad.
Motivational Keynote speaker at a SANLAM provincial meeting in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at Eunice High School’s father-and-daughter evening in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at SANLAM ladies’ function, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at the Baptist Church function in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a diversity day presented by SANLAM, Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational address to some 200 fourth-year students of the Faculty of Education, University of the Free State.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ function in Bultfontein.
Motivational speaker at a church fundraising event, Kimberley.
Motivational speaker at a school fundraising function, Jacobsdal.
Keynote speaker at a staff motivational session for SANLAM Bloemfontein area, Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a staff motivational session for SANLAM North West and Central areas, Thaba Nchu.
Motivational speaker at a church function for ladies, Woodland Hills in Bloemfontein.
2011
Motivational speaker at the Potchefstroom-based university residence Vergeet-my-Nie’s mother-and-daughter weekend in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a conference on inclusive education, Johannesburg.
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Motivational speaker at the WAU conference, Wesselsbron.
Motivational speaker at the National Prayer Day for Women at the Woodland Hills congregation in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ camp of the Dutch Reformed Church Pretoria East.
Guest speaker and part of the main procession at the nine graduation ceremonies of the University of the Free State, addressing an audience of more than 20 000 people over three days.
Motivational speaker at a fundraising function for Down syndrome (Popcorn Kids), Johannesburg.
Motivational speaker at the annual meeting of Aurora Centre, Free State in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a motivational afternoon at Webbers Attorneys, Bloemfontein.
Speaker at the Down syndrome International offices outside London.
Advocated for the rights of people with Down syndrome at Hyde Park (London).
Motivational speaker at a function of Ladies Club 100, in Bloemfontein.
Delivered keynote address to 2 500 matric learners at the winter school for Grade 12s presented by the Free State Technikon.
Guest speaker at the opening function of Jim Fouché Secondary School, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning in Pelissier, Bloemfontein.
Guest speaker at a motivational morning of Willem Postma Primary Schoo in Bloemfontein.
Guest speaker at an evening for stars in Kathu.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning hosted by Wilgehof Dutch Reformed Church, Bloemfontein.
Delivered address to English-speaking students in Special Education Needs at the invitation of the Faculty of Education, University of the Free State.
Keynote speaker at a motivational morning of UNISA, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning, Hoopstad.
Delivered address to Afrikaans-speaking students in Special Education Needs at the invitation of the Faculty of Education, University of the Free State.
Keynote speaker at the Night of Stars fundraising event of Martie du Plessis High Schoo in Bloemfontein.
Delivered opening address at the National Conference for People in the Nursing Profession, Black Mountain.
Speaker at the National Conference for Teachers in ECD, University of the Free State.
Delivered opening address at the spring school for Grade 12s presented by Free State Technikon, Bloemfontein, attended by more than 1 000 learners from across the province.
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Motivational speaker at a motivational morning of Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) Doxa Deo Church, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a school prize-giving ceremony at Queenstown College for Girls.
Motivational speaker at a function for the community of Cradock.
Delivered an address at the SANDTA Conference for Occupational and Physiotherapists in Bloemfontein.
Delivered vote of thanks at the awards ceremony of the Hamlet Foundation, Johannesburg, for people who have made a contribution to the lives of mentally handicapped people in South Africa.
Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning in Christiana.
Motivational speaker at a fundraising event in Douglas.
Motivational speaker at Fauna Primary School, Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a fundraising event in Kroonstad.
Motivational speaker at the year-end function of businessmen in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a conference hosted by the Department of Education for delegates of the Department as well as school principals of the Free State, in Bloemfontein.
Keynote speaker at a gala function for the national winners of the Young Entrepreneurs Competition presented by SA Breweries in Bloemfontein.
2012
Motivational speaker at a community and church function, Langebaan.
Motivational speaker at the Southern Africa area conference (covering nine countries) of Countrywomen of the World, to be hosted in Maseru Lesotho. Countrywomen of the World is the world’s largest organisation for rural woman, with more than nine million members across 72 countries.
Motivational speaker at SANLAM event, Klerksdorp.
Live interview for the TV programme Sistahood in Johannesburg.
Sheri was invited to do an audition for the TV soap Binnelanders, following which she was cast, requiring her to study her script and act in front of the camera like all other actors.
Motivational speaker at women’s function of a congregation in Bloemfontein.
Motivational speaker at a community function in Welkom.
Motivational speaker at a meeting of businessmen, Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech during a sermon of Kroonstad Dutch Reformed congregation.
Delivered a motivational speech to Fichardpark Dutch Reformed congregation in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech to Education students at University of the Free State.14
Motivational speaker at a Presbyterial meeting of the Dutch Reformed Church in the Eastern Free State, Harrismith.
Motivational speaker at a fundraising function, Diamantveld, Kimberley.
Motivational speaker during a sermon of the Dutch Reformed Church, Verkeerdevlei.
Delivered a motivational speech at Calvinia High School.
Delivered a motivational speech at Hantam High School in Calvinia.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community function, Calvinia.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Reformed Church, Genl De Wet, in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Reformed Church, Universitas, in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech to the learners of the agricultural school in Jacobsdal.
Delivered a motivational speech at school fundraising event, Pretoria.
Delivered a motivational speech at Trinity Methodist Church, Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at South African Teachers’ Union (SAOU) meeting for teachers at Aldam Estate.
Delivered a motivational speech at Dealsville community gathering.
Delivered a motivational address to Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI), Kimberley.
Delivered a motivational speech at community function in Odendaalsrus.
Delivered a motivational speech at Dr Visser School’s assembly in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at Langenhovenpark congregation morning tea in Bloemfontein.
Acted as Women’s Day speaker at Oranje School for Girls in Bloemfontein.
Speaker at a morning tea for women at Tempe Military Base in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational address at mother-and-daughter morning of the university residence Vergeet-My-Nie in Bloemfontein.
Sheri does the opening key note speech at the Down syndrome international conference.
Delivered a motivational speeches at previously disadvantaged schools in the vicinity of Cape Town, including Ocean View, Marine Primary and LSEN, as well as at a Montessori school near Cape Town.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community evening, Hopetown.
Delivered opening address at the Annual National Speech Therapy and Audiology Forum, Bloem Spa Hotel in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at a morning for women themed “With confidence comes success”, Pretoria.
Delivered a motivational speech at the two morning services of the Pellisier congregation in Bloemfontein.15
Delivered a motivational speech to assisted Club 21 (Hero Foundation) to raise money for the education of learners with Down syndrome, Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community function, Bethlehem.
Delivered a motivational speech at area conference for Ladies Actuality, George.
Delivered a motivational speech to change perceptions about people with handicaps, Wesselsbron.
Spoke at a mother-daughter evening, Bloemfontein Primary School
Delivered keynote address at HWSETA annual general meeting, Kimberley
Spoke at Lettie Fouché evening fundraising event in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at Fichardpark Secondary School in Bloemfontein, a mother-and-daughter event.
Delivered a motivational speech at Retha Pool Drama School farewell function in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at a Koppies community function.
Delivered a motivational speech at a SANTAM conference, Bloemfontein
Spoke at the Paediatric Department, Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein, during a motivational morning for doctors and staff.
Delivered a motivational speech a meeting of schools and governing bodies in Middelburg, Gauteng.
2013
Delivered a motivational speech at Volkskool Heidelberg Primary and Secondary schools: spoke to governing bodies and teachers of both schools, to open doors for Main stream education for learners with Down syndrome.
Delivered a motivational speech at Volkskool Heidelberg Primary School: Spoke to parents and learners at the opening ceremony of the school, to open doors for Main stream education for learners with Down syndrome.
Delivered a motivational speech at a Jagersfontein community efunction.
Speak to Speech therapy-students at the University of Cape Town.
Key note speaker at National Casual Day events, to help disabled people in South Africa, in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech in Johannesburg to motivate the staff of “Insure Group holdings, Ltd”.
Delivered a motivational speech at a Heuwelkruin congregation at a women’s day function in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at the reformed church in Heidedal, Bloemfontein. The people who will attend are a support group for people with addictive behaviour and also the people themselves.
Key note speaker at the National Casual Day events, to help disabled people in South Africa, Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech to learners and teachers of the secondary school Oranje in Bloemfontein at a leadership workshop, to open doors for Main stream education for learners with Down syndrome.
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Delivered a motivational speech at the WAU conference, Vryburg, South Africa.
Speak to the ETV-students of the Department of Education of the University of the Free State in Afrikaans.
Speak to the ETI-students of the Department of Education of the University of the Free State in English.
Delivered a motivational speech in Faurismith at a school reunion function.
Deliver a key note speech during the International Down syndrome day conference at the United Nations, New York, USA.
Delivered a motivational speech to the WAU area conference, Heilbron.
Delivered a motivational speech at the morning services of the Sasolburg reformed congregation.
Delivered a motivational speech to the Nylstroom WAU conference.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Striata old age home in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at the “Spar Bloem Ladies” morning, as guest speaker for the day in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at a fundraising event for the Eureka School for Learners with Disabilities, Pretoria.
Delivered a motivational speech at a Ladies’ function of the APK Church, Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at the following school in Secunda: Laerskool Goedehoop.
Delivered a motivational speech at the following school in Secunda: Laerskool Kruinpark.
Delivered a motivational speech at the following school in Secunda: Highveld Park School.
Delivered a motivational speech at the following school in Secunda: Laerskool Oranjegloed.
Delivered a motivational speech at an evening function for the community of Secunda.
Word of thanks to the Premier of the Free State for a special award, handed to her on the youth Day festivities, which was attended by more than 2 000 people in Bloemfontein.
Invited to visit Down syndrome International’s offices in Hampshire Court, outside London.
Delivered a speech to lecturers and students in at the University of Canterbury, outside London, UK.
Do the closing comment of a presentation at the Brighton Education Conference, UK.
Spoke at a leadership summed: Women in Leadership (WiL) at the Convention Centre, Emperors Palace, in Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Anglo American’s “Woman day” in Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a matric farewell in the City Hall in Bloemfontein. Secondary School Heatherdale.
Delivered a motivational speech at Clifton Preparatory School in the Natal Midlands.
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Delivered a motivational speech at Clifton Cowan House in the Natal Midlands.
Address the NG Church congregation in Reitz.
Delivered a motivational speech at a Queenstown community/church function.
Delivered a motivational speech at the festivities of National Health at the Potchefstroom University.
Sheri is invited by UNICEF to attend a youth summit in New York.
Delivered a motivational speech at a conference of Rennies Travel in Gold Reef City in Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function of “Mrs Bloemfontein” in Bloemfontein.
Do a keynote at the Nelson Mandela Centre for Memory. They’re hosting an event in Johannesburg for mental health awareness.
Sheri does a motivational speech at a Down syndrome conference in Cape Town.
2014
Delivered a motivational speech at the school opening, Fichardpark High School, Bloemfontein. About a thousand people attended.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Guilford, near London.
Invited to the University of London for a follow up on the research work on the LonDownS project, of which Sheri became part in July 2013. She will also become part of a new research on “the brain function in people with Down syndrome.
Delivered a motivational speech at a secondary private school outside London, at assembly, to motivate the learners to make the best of their opportunities. The name of the school is: Lord Wandsworth College and it is in Hampshire, UK.
Delivered a motivational speech at to the learners of Dr Malan in Mayerton, Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a WAU conference in Makwassie.
Delivered a motivational speech at a National Woman Day of prayer at a function held in Dewetsdorp
Delivered a motivational speech at a function for National Woman Day of prayer, held in the Dr Bumer Hall, Bloemfontein.
Deliver a key note speech at an ECD Conference in Johannesburg, Emperors’ Palace.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function of the “Voortekkers” to tell children about disabilities, Bloemfontein.
Deliver a key note speech at the Childs World Conference in Wales (UK) to give the main Conference Banquet keynote presentation (at which all delegates, senior university staff and external guests will be present).
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Deliver a key note speech at an Africa EDU Week Conference in the SANTON convention Centre, Johannesburg.
Deliver a motivational speech at a “woman-circle” in aide of “woman’s month”, Bloemfontein.
Delivered a key note at the “Conference for woman with disabilities” organised by the The Deputy Minister for the Department of Social Development, Hon. Hendrietta Bogopane-Zulu, who hosted the Conference, in Durban.
Delivered a motivational speech at the “Boertjie Festival” in Bultfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function in Lichtenburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Bryanston, Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a mother and daughter function of Amelia girls hostel of the University of the Free State, Bloemfontein.
Delivered a motivational speech at a fundraising for charity for Mrs. Free State, Bloemfontein.
Do the main speech at Newton Primary school’s prize giving, in Kimberley.
Delivered a motivational speech in Brandfort at a community function.
Main speech at a woman’s function of the Universitas Church, Bloemfontein.
Deliver a paper at an “Education Symposium” in Oxford, UK. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
When in London again: Invited to speak to the learners of the St Georges College, an independent secondary school in Weybridge and at their Clubhouse, a brand new day service facility for SLD young adults, based in a secluded corner on the campus of St Georges College.
2015
Deliver a main speech at a function for international guests and invited speakers at Israel Elwyn’s Harry and Jeanette Weiberg Retree Center for seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Jerusalem.
Delivered a paper at 4th International Conference on Pediatric Chronic Diseases, Disability and Human Development (ICCD), in Jerusalem, Israel. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function in Victoria Wes, Northern Cape. Community function.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function in Riebeekstad, attended by more than 300 people.
Delivered a motivational speech at the NG Church in Boshoff.
Delivered a key note speech at the international “Women in Academic Leadership” conference in Johannesburg.
Delivered the main speech at the birthday festivities of Kimberley Girls High in Kimberley.
Addressed two audiences of the National Rotary District Conference outside Bloemfontein.
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Delivered a key note speech at a National Conference of the South African Principal’s association (SAPA) in Johannesburg.
Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Burgersdorp.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Burgersdorp High School during assembly. After Sheri spoke aat the school, a contribution of R1 110.00 was made towards funds for Lettie Fouche School for learners with Special Needs.
Delivered a motivational speech at a ladies function for parents at Jim Fouche Primary school, Bloemfontein. After she spoke the ladies decided to collect money for Lettie Fouche after her speech and a contribution of R2700.00 was made toward the Lettie Fouche School for learners with Special Needs.
Delivered a motivational speech at the Jim Fouche Primary school, Bloemfontein.
Addressed the University Free State -Marketing staff.
Delivered a spotlight speech at the 2015 European Conference Series in Thistle Brighton, Brighton, UK.
Delivered a key note speech at a Free State Conference of the South African Principal’s association (SAPA) in Welkom.
Addressed all the learners and educators of Eunice Secondary School, Bloemfontein during their assembly period.
Delivered a presentation at the Panchayat in India, about the role she plays as an ambassador to DSi and person with Down syndrome in South Africa.
Delivered a key note during the opening ceremonies, at the International Down Syndrome Congress in India, which is held every three years. She also carried the official flag of DSi during the opening and closing ceremonies, as international ambassador of all people with Down syndrome.
Addressed the Annual General Meeting of the SA Federation for Mental Health in Johannesburg.
Delivered a speech at a fundraising function for the Jenny Schneider special school in Klerksdorp.
Delivered a motivational speech to the Afrikaans third year students, of the Education Faculty of the University of the Free State.
Delivered a motivational speech to the English third year students, of the Education Faculty of the University of the Free State.
Delivered a speech at a fund raising function in aid of children in an orphanage in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a speech at a fund raising function in aid of the High School “Noord Kaap” in Kimberley.
Delivered a speech at a community function in Parys, Free State.
Delivered a speech at function at Moolmanshoek, Free State, to raise awareness about people with Down syndrome.
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Delivered a key note speech at the First South African Symposium on Teacher Education for Inclusion, which will be held in Vanderbijlpark.
Delivered public lecture at the Department of Education Leadership and Management institute of the University of Johannesburg in Soweto.
Delivered a speech at an assembly of the Castle Bridge School (disadvantaged) in Bloemfontein.
Delivered a speech at the Annual General Meeting, of Yonder (Centre for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities) in Kimberley.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function of the High School in Middelburg, Cape Province.
Addressed the learners and teachers of the Kgato Primary School in the townships of Bloemfontein.
Delivered a paper at the 2015 South African Education Research Association (SAERA) Conference (the biggest education conference in South Africa) about Down syndrome.
Address a conference of Transem, manufacturers of quality dairy product and fruit juices in the Thaba Tshwene Lodge, in Hartebeesfontein.
Address the school children in the morning and in the evening the prize giving function of the Witrivier Primary School in Mpumalanga.
Delivered a motivational speech at a function for disadvantaged woman (woman on wheels) in Heidedal.
Address the medical staff at the Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town.
Up to the end of 2016: Sheri has given around 480 motivational speeches, while she is working full time as assistant teacher at Lettie Fouche School for the mentally handicapped.
2016
29 January: Addressed a national motivational workshop and function of an institution with learners with different disabilities in Krugersdorp.
30 January: Addressed a motivational workshop and function of the business: Incredible Door, in Biekie Bos, near Meyerton.
5 February: Delivered a motivational speech at the Stutterheim. High School in the morning.
5 February: Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Stutterheim in the evening.
24 February: Addressed a conference of a woman organization in Hobhouse.
4 March: Delivered a motivational speech at Empangeni High School and a Remedial school in Empangeni.21
5 March: Addressed a National Conference for woman of the reformed church in Empangeni, Natal.
11 March: Addressed the IBSC (International Boys Schools' Coalition) Conference in Johannesburg. She did the main speech during the gala dinner.
17 March: Addressed the Cheethas (Free State Rugby team) during a motivational session before a big match.
18 March: Addressed d a Down syndrome awareness day function at the Bloemfontein Psychiatric Complex in Bloemfontein.
16 April: Delivered a motivational speech at a fundraising function for the Predentia Youth Centre in Kroonstad.
23 April: Delivered a motivational speech at a fundraising function for an old age home in Kimberley.
4 May: Delivered a motivational speech at Konika Minolta Business Solutions in Bloemfontein awards dinner
2016.
7 May: Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Lichtenburg.
8 May Delivered a motivational speech at a mother’s day function in a church in Lichtenburg.
20 May Delivered a motivational speech at a fundraising function at Fan Court, for a Down syndrome body “Up with Downs” in George, Western Cape Province.
27 May: Invited to address the graduation ceremonies of the Boston College in Kimberley.
28 May: Invited to address a community function in Garsfontein, Pretoria.
28 May: Delivered a motivational speech to the youth of the Garsfontein congregation.
30 May: Guest speaker on television (KykNet), on Die Groot Ontbyt.
20-22 June: Addressed the World Conference on Community Nursing in Cape Town.
25 June: Deliver a key note at a conference: “Support 4 learning” in Botswana.
26 June: Deliver a motivational address at an informal morning with Down syndrome parents, many from informal settlements, in Botswana.
27 June: Address the Thornhill School teachers in Botswana.
12-16 July: Played the lead role in a two person production, at the Free State Art Festival on the campus of the University of the Free State, for which they received a standing ovation every time.
20 July: Delivered a motivational speech to the senior management teams of the Free Stae and Northen Cape of Old Mutual in Bloemfontein.
26/27 July: Sheri attended the Presidential Working group on Disabilities of South Africa. The chairperson of this committee is the State President and all the ministers and Directors Generals of South Africa as well as the Presidency Officials and leaders in the disability sector of Souty Africa is on the working group.
26 July: Sheri address the presidential working group on Disabilities in Pretoria.
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29 July: Sheri address the staff of Old Mutual (Free State) to motivate them. Bloemfontein.
30 July: Sheri address a community function of the Reformed church of Carltonville.
5-7 August: Invited to do a key note address the 10th European Down syndrome Congress in Istanbul.
15-17 August: Sheri addressed the 9th World nursing and healthcare Conference in London, UK. Her speech was chosen as the highlight of the conference.
19 August: Sheri addressed a lunch time seminar of an hour by the International Centre for Evidence in Disability (ICED) by the London University college in London.
22 August: Sheri was again part of research done by the London University.
1 September: Asked by Dr Bertram Henderson and addressed the clinical specialists attending a workshop at the University of the Free State at the Department of Neurology and Clinical Genetics at the medical faculty.
9/10 September: Sheri addressed an AGS church cermon in Middelburg (Transvaal).
17 September: 30 July: Sheri addressed a community function of the Reformed church of Edenvale
23 September: Sheri addressed a festival for disabled artists in Melkbosstrand near Cape Town.
September Sheri addressed a wellness day focussing on people with disabilities which will be held in Bloemfontein aaaat the NHBRC offices, as national statistics shows a lot of disabled people living in the Free State Province.
17-19 October: She did a key note speech at the "9th Euro Nursing and Medicare Summit” which was held in Rome, Italy from 17-19th October 2016 with the theme "Exploring latest innovations in nursing and healthcare".
23 Oktober: Deliver a talk at a cermon of the Hugenote Church in Bloemfontein.
29 October: Sheri addressed a function for women of the South Free State, of the NG church in Van Stadensrust.
1 November: Sheri addressed a function for the parents of outistic children at the Willem Postma primary school in Bloemfontein.
9 November: Sheri addressed a function for women in Fourismith, South Free State.
25 November: Sheri was a guest on “Ontbytsake” on television (KykNet).
26 November: Sheri addressed a function of the woodwork guild in Bloemfontein.
2017
4 February: Invited to address a function of Down syndrome Free State at Moolmanshoek.
7-10 February: Invited to attend and address the Inclusion Africa General Assembly. Conference.
11 February: Invited to address a community function in Edenburg.
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13 February: Will addres schools in Westonarea, Johannesburg.
24 February: Sheri will address the staff of the retail business, Kloppers, to motivate them for the year.
4 March: Invited to do a show in Noupoort, Cape Province.
17 March: Invited to be part of and to speak at the Down syndrome International day festivities in Botswana.
In Botswana: 17-20 Maart.
25 March: Invited to speak at a function, GWK Karoofees, Midas ladies and girl’s morning in De Aar.
1 April: Invited to present a half day workshop of the Belmatt Healthcare Training group in London.
5 April: Invited to do a key note address at a conference of the Royal Society of Medicine in London.
8 April: Invited to present a full day workshop of the Belmatt Healthcare Training group in London.
10 April- 30 April: Invited to speak at different venues in London.
In London: 30 March to 30 April.
17/18 May: Invited to address the annual seminar of RealNet Holdings in Johannesburg.
23/24 May: Invited to speak at the National conference of the ATKV (Afrikaanse taal en kultuur vereniging)
27 May: Invited to speak at a fundraiser of the rotaries in Ladybrand.
3 June: Invited to address a function of the Gateway school in Johannesburg.
10-12 July: Invited to do a key note address at the 10th World nursing and healthcare Conference in Berlin, Germany.
In Germany: 29 Junie-12 July
18-22 July: Sheri plays in a flag ship production of the Free State Art Festival.
2 August: Invited to address a function in Klerksdorp
19 August: Sheri asked to address a function held in aid of orphanages in Pretoria.
12 October: Sheri’s book launch in Cape Town
14 October: Invited to address a fundraising of the Hugenote School in Wellington.
19 October: Sheri’s book launch in Bloemfontein
4 November: Invited to address a function of the NG Church in Danabaai, Eastern Cape.
5 November: Sheri’s book launch in George
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CULTURAL ACHIEVEMENTS
2012/2014: Sheri passes an audition and played in the TV production Binnelanders.
She played in 8 episodes in 2012 and again 8 in episodes in 2014. It was a real speaking/acting role.
She played lead role in a two person production, at the Free State Art Festival on the campus of the University of the Free State, for which they received standing ovations every time.The show was evaluated and accepted by a panel of judges, to be performed at the Art Festival in Bloemfontein.
Sheri was invited to play in a flag production on the fringe of the Free State Art Festival in 2017. The name of the production is: Extra chromosomes is not cool. This will be a follow up of the previous show.
Sheri wrote a book about her life and with the help of the writer Colleen Naude. The manuscript was accepted by Lux Verbi and will be launched in October 2017.
BALLET1990-1994: Elna van der Walt School of Ballet
Passed two ballet examinations and participated in two concerts
PIANO
1993-2001: Taught by Susan Hattingh. Following Susan’s tragic death in an accident, Shéri lost the desire to play the piano.
Free State Eisteddfod, category for learners with special education needs:
1999/ 2001: Piano solo: 2 A++
SPEECH AND DRAMA
1992-1997: Petro Muller Studio
1998-2013: Elsa Krantz Studio
1997 to 2000: Awarded the Martie du Plessis School trophy for Speech and Drama
1999 and 2000: Martie du Plessis School colours for national speech and drama achievements
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Free State Eisteddfod:
1995 - 2011: Received a total number of 9 A+ and 20 A++ symbols.
Randburg Eisteddfod (national competition hailed as best in South Africa):
Countrywide category for learners with special education needs:
1999: Dramatised prose and Poem: A++ (94%) and A++ (98%)
Shéri won the prize for the highest percentage in the category for learners with special education needs at a national level. She received the prize in Randburg and was the first learner with special education needs to participate in the gala evening.
2000: Dramatised prose and Poem: A++ (96%) and A++ (98%)
Again, Shéri won the prize for the highest percentage in the category for learners with special education needs at a national level. She received the prize in Randburg and again participated in the gala event.
2001: Dramatised prose and Poem: A++ (98%) and A++ (96%)
For a third time, Shéri won the prize for the highest percentage in the category for learners with special education needs at a national level. She received the prize in Randburg and again participated in the gala event.
After 2001 she left school and could no longer participate. The prizes above are remarkable, as none of the other learners who participated and won prizes in the same category were mentally handicapped.
MEDIA
1993: Sarie Moederskap
1998: Finesse
1999: TV programme on SABC2 about inclusive education
2000: Huisgenoot article about achievements in the ordinary school system
2001: Huisgenoot article about the trauma of her father’s death
2004: Radio talk on RSG about being handicapped
2005: Volksblad article about extraordinary achievements at eisteddfods
Radio talk on Radio Rosestad about being handicapped
2007: Article in Passie about the achievements of a child with Down syndrome despite mental constraints
2008: Article in Finesse about a child with Down syndrome who has never become discouraged
2009: Radio talk on RSG about being a person with Down syndrome achieving a diploma
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Radio talk on Radio Metro about the life of a person with Down syndrome in the academic world, and what one can achieve despite problems
Article in Sibaleni nathi, a magazine focusing on people with Down syndrome, about being the first person with Down syndrome to receive a diploma
Articles in the papers Volksblad, Die Burger and Beeld on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndrome
Article in the paper Express on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndrome
Article in the paper Voices of Change on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndrome
Huisgenoot and YOU article about achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndrome
Articles in the papers Volksblad, Die Burger and Beeld on achieving a prestige award from the South African Down Syndrome Association for the highest academic achievement by a person with Down syndrome in South Africa
Headline story in Volksblad (3 August) headed “Hemelkindjie bekoor kongres” about speech Shéri delivered at NAPTOSA’s annual meeting in Kimberley
Guest on the television actuality programme Kwêla, broadcast on kykNET, which was consequently selected one of the three episodes that elicited the greatest response in the ten-year existence of the programme
Article in a Western Gauteng paper Your City on Shéri’s performance at an Old Mutual gala event, in which the author states that her speech was more inspiring than all the previous speakers’, including Gary Teichman, Christo Wiese and Dr Marius Barnard
2010: Article and photo in Ons Stad on a speech given at Excelsior
Half-page article in Ons Stad about a speech given at a ladies’ club
Article on disability in Mail and GuardianArticle in Sibaleni nathi, a magazine focusing on people with Down syndrome, about being the Down Syndrome Achiever of the Year
Article in Sibaleni nathi about her speech at the Down Syndrome Awareness Day in Johannesburg
Full-page article in Ons Stad about her nomination as Bloemfontein Resident of the Year
More articles in Ons Stad about her achievementsArticle in Vuk'uzenzele, a government magazine
2011: Article in Down syndrome International (DSi) (1 January) headed “Self-advocate Shéri Brynard from South Africa to become DSi Ambassador”
Article in Die Lig on Shéri’s life and the experience of the family, February
Article in The Times (a national paper) by Prof Jonathan Jansen, Rector of University of the Free State, headed “Down’s girl makes spirit soar”, 17 March
Article in Volksblad, about Shéri being the first speaker with Down syndrome at a graduation ceremony at a South African university
Article in Taalgenoot, a magazine published by the Afrikaanse Taal- en Kultuurvereniging (ATKV)
Picture in Indwe (July), the South African Airways (SAA) magazine distributed on all SAA planes
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Article in Kathu Gazette, 18 August
Article in Your City, a Klerksdorp publication, volume 302
Article in the Voices of Change about her speeches at the graduation ceremonies, distributed with Volksblad and Sunday Times
Article in Ons Stad, a Bloemfontein paper, about her speech at the Night of Stars fundraising benefit of the Martie du Plessis School
Article in Cento Sport, Hobby and Culture Newspaper, a Bloemfontein paper, about her speech at the Night of Stars fundraising benefit of the Martie du Plessis School
Article in SA Ophthalmology Journal about her speeches at the graduation ceremonies, to prove to doctors what people with Down syndrome can achieve
Article in The Star, 31 October 2011. Highest acclaim for Down syndrome lass.
Article in Juice, the magazine published by Mango Airline and distributed on their flights, November
Article in Volksblad, 2 October, on the Presidential award she received on 27 October in Johannesburg
Article in Krant, 2 October, on the Presidential award she received on 27 October in Johannesburg
Article in Ons Stad, 3 October
Articles in numerous small papers in the rural areas of South Africa where Sheri has delivered motivational speeches, such as Christiana, Douglas and Cradock
Guest on television actuality programme Kwêla, broadcast on kykNET, December
Article in Free State Times, 16 December
2012: Article in Huisgenoot and YOU, January
Invited to be a guest on the show Sistahood on e.tv, which is about the empowerment of young women. She was asked to motivate the viewers and share her inspirational story, 12/18 March
Invited to audition for the television soap Binneland, and was consequently cast to play a part
Articles in Volksblad, Die Burger and Beeld on landing a part in Binneland as well as for being chosen as subject of lead article in the new international journal on Down syndrome, March
Article in People Magazine
Cover-page article and cover picture in Get It, Bloemfontein, in April 2012.
Articles on Shéri’s selection as finalist for the National Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year awards for 2012, including:- YOU/Huisgenoot/Drum magazines, two consecutive weeks 12/19 July- Bloemnuus, 6 July- Volksblad, 5 July
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- Courant, 6 July
Guest on the television talk show Praat met Rian broadcast on kykNET, July
Article in Rapport, 22 July
Front-page article in Volksblad, 23 July, on winning “Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year” for the category “Youth movers”. Her name was also on the billboards in the streets.
The following Articles on Shéri’s selection as Shoprite Checkers Woman of the Year” for the category “Youth movers” including:
Article in Huisgenoot/YOU
Article in City Press, week of 23 July
Article in Express, week of 23 July
Article in New Age, week of 23 July
Article in Beeld, week of 23 July
Article in Die Burger, week of 23 July
Article in Krant, week of 23 July
Feature article, Beeld, week of 30 July
RSG interview, 24 July
Guest on Radio Oranje breakfast show, 24 July
Guest on television actuality programme Kwêla on kykNET, 1 August
Picture in Volksblad, week of 6 August, on Woman of the Year competition
Picture in Volksblad, week of 6 August, on her talk in Dealsville
RSG interview in English, 6 August
RSG interview, 7 August (Afrikaans)
Broadcast of the Woman of the Year gala event in Johannesburg on Mzansi Magic, 8 and 9 August
Interview on Morning live in the Western Cape, 14 August
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Radio interview on KFC Radio in the Western Cape following Shéri’s speech at the International Down Syndrome Convention, 15 August
Article in Huisgenoot/YOU on Shéri’s achievements and appearance in Binneland
Article in Down syndrome daily, international magazine: Down syndrome no handicap for this award-winner. 28 July
Broadcast of her appearance in the TV soap Binneland, 31 July-9 August
Picture in Vrouekeur magazine, week of 20 August
Article in Sarie magazine headed “Hoe het jy gevoel toe …?” September
Full article in Vrouekeur, week of 2 September
Article in the national paper Thisability, September
Feature on Shéri on the television programme The Dr Mol Show, 19/26 October
Feature about Shéri titled “Against all odds”, Channel 403, 26 October
Article in O, Oprah Magazine, “Our heroine: Shéri Brynard”, November
Appear on the webpage of Down Syndrome International (DSi) as international ambassador for Down syndrome
Shéri’s speech at the University of the Free State graduation ceremonies and many of her other speeches has also been published on the DSi webpage
Article in I Do magazine, November
NATIONAL TV-NEWS on 4 December 2012: Sheri’s Speech addressed at the State President, Mr Jacob Zuma, was shown on National Television on three different channels.
Her interview on Kwêla was broadcasted again in December and was chosen as one of the 10 best and best received interviews on Kwêla, in 2012. This is a very popular program on which many national heroes’ is interviewed every year.
An article in Huisgenoot/YOU magazine on being chosen as the second most inspiring person in South Africa for 2012.
2013Article in the Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI), Kimberley magazine, on Sheri visiting them in 2012.
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Article in “Volksblad”, a local paper. The article was done after a motivational talk in Heidedal where she tried to motivate people who face the problem of substance abuse. The article also highlighted the fact that she will be delivering a key note speech in New York in International Down syndrome day, 21 March 2013.Sheri appears on the National news while she was in New York.
21 March: Sheri appears on “Against All Odds” on TV 3.
A photo of Sheri was in “Courant”, a local paper, on 28 March because of a speech during National Casual day festivities where money was raised for people with disabilities.
24 April Main article in Sasol local paper on her visit to Sasol.
28 May: Story about Sheri on E Tv at 9:30.
June: An article in “Stabilis”, the school paper of Grey College, about a motivational talk se delivered at Grey.
June: Article in “Ons Stad”, a local paper on being nominated as “Bloemfonteiner of the year” for the second time.
June: An article in die “Weekly” about her award from die Premier of the Free State: “Most outstanding youth. Best Achiever Award” on National and International level in the Free State, during the Youth Day festivities.
July: A follow up story on Sheri on the program “Against All Odds” on ETV was filmed.
July: An article in “Huisgenoot” and “You” on Sheri.
25 July: Article in “Ons Stad”, a local paper, on being part of the “LonDowns” research project in London.
A documentary is currently been made about Sheri’s life, that will be shown nationally and internationally.
81-20 December: A follow up story of Sheri was again shown on TV for three executive days.
2013Article in the Northern Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NOCCI), Kimberley magazine, on Sheri visiting them in 2012.
Sheri appears on the National news while she was in New York.
21 March: Sheri appears on “Against All Odds” on TV 3.
28 May: Story about Sheri on E Tv at 9:30
July: A follow up story on Sheri on the program “Against All Odds” on ETV was filmed and broadcasted the week before Christamas 2013
Many more articles in many languages: Google Sheri Brynard
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2014 March: Feature article in Finesse on Sheri. May: TV-Plus on Sheri’s role in Binnelanders. July: Sheri’s documentary is shown during the arts festival held in Bloemfontein every year. 7 July: Article in “The Times” about Sheri speaking at the Africa EDU conference. 16 July: Article in “Volksblad” on Sheri’s documentary that was shown during the art festival in Bloemfontein. 24 July: Article in “Bloem News” on Sheri speaking in Bultfontein. 20 August: Article in Volksblad September: Article in Teacher magazine.
A documentary is currently been made about Sheri’s life, that will be shown nationally and internationally, 2014.
A documentary of Sheri’s life was shown at an art festival in South Africa in July, 2014 Another documentary on SABC 3: Doctor’s orders features Sheri, as person with Down syndrome who have achieved against all odds. A Documentary will be made in November for the program: True Heroes which profiles guests for have overcome physical challenges and reached certain levels of success in their lives. The show aims to break stereo-types and show how far human will can take a person to greater heights. We have profiled Lucas Sithole (current Wheelchair World Champion), Emily Gray (Paralympian Swimmer), Terry-Ann Adams (Disability activist who is an albino), Samekelo Radebe (4 time paralympian 400m International Champion). These are few names that we have interviewed on our show.
2015
April 2015: Article in “The Times” about Sheri April 2015: Article in “Rand Daily Mail” about Sheri
Sheri forms part of a documentary about the condition: Down syndrome in South Africa.
Sheri’s speech and appearance at the “Bultfontein Boertjie fees” is shown on the program Fiesta, every day from 2-6 March, 2015.
Sheri appeared in a documentary on the 5th of July 2015, made by “Bliksim Productions” and Coenie de Villiers.
Cover-page article and cover picture in Get It, Bloemfontein, Augustl 2015.
September: Article in a local Klerksdorp paper.
Article in an international journal: Kids Nation Magazine, edition 7, September/October 2015.
Article in “Volksblad” on a speech given in Parys and the work Sheri is doing to change perceptions about Down syndrome.
Article in Volksblad about the fact that Sheri was awarded the Optentia Award, at the First South African Symposium on Teacher Education for Inclusion, which was held in Van der Bijl Park.
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2016
Featured in the international Kids Nation magazine Issue #10 for the second time.
Sheri appeared in a TV documentary in February, called: A life with…..
30 May: Guest speaker on television (KykNet), on Die Groot Ontbyt.
15 July: Featured by the television program: Pasella, on TV2.
July: Featured by the television program: Kwela, on Kyknet.
28 November: Guest speaker on television (KykNet), on Ontbytsake.
Many more articles in many languages: Google Sheri Brynard
TESTEMONIALS
THE FOLLOWING MESSAGES WERE POSTED ON THE WEB FOLLOWING SHÉRI’S SPEECHES AT THE GRADUATION CEREMONIES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE IN MAY 2011:
“Thank you for a very special ceremony. Sheri Brynard was very special, and her sister was one of the graduates!” – Drina
“I attended this and would just like to say how much I enjoyed it. It truly was a wonderful event and a positive experience. Sheri Brynard’s motivational talk was an experience.” – Ronelle
“And the speaker ... I read about her in the paper this morning. I then realised that her speech was a truly exceptional event. To hear her speaking first-hand and to feel the impact of her message was an experience I will always cherish.” – Delene
“The choice of speaker was excellent and, from watching the students, I could tell that that young girl had made an impression on the lives of most of them, perhaps even a life-changing impression.” – Danie and Carina
“Furthermore, thank you for inviting Ms Brynard as speaker! She is truly an inspiration! She reminded me that success doesn’t just fall in one’s lap, but that it is something that can only be achieved through hard work.” – Lezelle
Thank you for an excellent graduation ceremony and for the new format. The speakers, Brynard, Prof Jansen and the Chancellor, were inspiring.” – Nico
The following note was written by Dzivhuluwani Ramabulana of ETVRamabulana - /
Against All Odds has been given an opportunity to play on ETV.We have selected our most inspiring stories to play at 21:30 on Tuesday 28 May 2013.Sheri’s story will be the leading story on the program.Feel free to watch it again or inform those who may have not watched the initial episode.
Sheri has inspired thousands of South Africans and so have you. We received multiple emails of parents who thought that their children had no hope of a future and resorted to isolating them and keeping them away from
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society. After they saw the episode of how you encouraged Sheri they have changed their entire perceptive on their children with Down syndrome and are taking the Suzette Brynard approach.God bless Sheri and all her future ventures. Dzivhu
Sheri is part of research that is been done on the following, in London:
With the Down syndrome population now approaching eight million, it is important to understand the nature and cause of the AD-like dementia that can occur in this disease. The aim is to understand dementia in Down syndrome at the neurological, cognitive, behavioural, cellular and genetic levels, which will also inform our general understanding of Alzheimer's disease.
This multi-disciplinary team will focus on the development of biomarkers for early diagnosis of dementia in Down syndrome, the biochemical and cellular characteristics that differentiate those who will develop dementia from those who are protected, the genetics of behavioural and cognitive phenotypes seen in Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome, and stem cell approaches to therapies for dementia.
After Sheri spoke at his school, a letter from the headmaster of:
Lord Wandsworth College
Long Sutton, Hook, Hampshire RG29 1TB
T: 01256 862201 F: 01256 860363 E: [email protected]
www.lordwandsworth.org
-----Original Message-----
From: HAMPSONJ
Sent: 31 January 2014 09:28
To: Coetzere
Subject: Speaker todac
Dear Mr Coetzer
I assume you were the 'fellow South African' that recommended the speaker today. If not I apologise for sending this email to you!
But I was just emailing to say how much I enjoyed that assembly. That was honestly one of the best speakers I have seen in my 7 years at Lord Wandsworth College. A truly inspirational person and a lesson to everyone in overcoming adversity.
Please pass on my regards!
James Hampson
Dear Sheri and Susette
Glad to hear Sheri got home ok.
Just a note to say thank you Sheri for participating at our Women in Academic Leadership which took place on the 25th and 26th of March 2015. Your contribution did add tremendous value to the delegates. You got an average score of 5 and 5 being the highest number.
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The delegates and I were very inspired and some will be in contact for speaking engagements.
Unfortunately my budget was not much but next time I will be looking at a fee for Sheri.
Thank you so much Susette for sharing your daughter with the world. You really have an exceptional young woman.
I look forward to working with you again in future.
May God’s great grace invade every area of your lives.
Best Regards,Debra
Dear Miss Sheri Brynard,
It was indeed a great privilege to hear your address at the recently held WDSC 2015 at Chennai, India. Your perfect speech left all in amazement at your ability and achievement to conquer your affliction. You are the role model for all those who aspire towards a higher life state.
It was also a pleasure meeting you and your Mother who has been instrumental in your life and it's fascinating progress. You have done the impossible and beaten all medical dictum.
We wish you the very best in your future endeavour and consider ourselves fortunate to have come across you to learn as parents and hope it improves our own daughter in the years to come.
We intend to stay in touch with you to exchange notes when possible.
Regards
Mr Naveen and Mrs Smriti SarawagiKolkata
Hi Sheri!I just had the immense pleasure of attending your talk in Gaborone Botswana! (I have a lovely photo of us😊)I just want to thank you for sharing your life story and incredible achievements with the world!! You are a symbol of 'being the change you want to see in the world'🌼An inspiration to us all! Your 30min talk broke down the walls of assumptions and prejudices. Your words touched my heart and strengthen my believes in that every child is born unique with a strong purpose and that no system nor institution must take that away from them. Your mother, guided by God, is an incredible woman! I thank the divine guidance for making sure that I went to the talk today and that I could thank you both in person. May the angels always be by your side to open doors for you to walk through to reach as many people as possible in the world! Love Vicki
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From: Maretha Maartens ([email protected]) Subject: VIR SHERI (en sommer vir jou ook, Susette) Message: Liewe Sheri, na gister se vertoning leef daar een gedagte in my hart, en ek moet dit net aan jou oordra: Never stop dreaming. Jy mag maar verder droom, want in die vervulling van jou drome as jong vrou wat al jou krag en volharding van die HERE kry, sien ander dat dinge wat vir hulle onmoontlik lyk, in die krag van die HERE uitgevoer kan word. Weet jy dat jy nie net vir jouself droom nie? Dat die moeilike dinge wat jy aanpak, soos hierdie opvoering, soos saadjies is wat in die grond val, ontkiem en vrugte vir ANDER mense dra? Om een voorbeeld te noem: Danilde, ons kleindogter. het gister jou vertoning bygewoon en kan nie uitgepraat raak oor wat sy beleef het nie. Sy is baiee skaam, 'n klein introvert met 'n koppie waarin baie drome leef. Haar hindernis is skuheid. Maar nou het sy gesien hoe jy in die doen van jou droom jou hindernisse oorkom het. Jy het vir Danilde inspireer, omdat jy in die krag van die Here aan goeie drome gestalte gee. NEVER STOP DREAMING. Liefde, M .
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