CURRICULUM VITAE

SHÉRI BRYNARDOnly person with Down syndrome with a diploma

in education (Educare) in South Africa.

May 2018brynards@ufs.ac.za

www.sheribrynard.co.za

+27(0) 83 415 0459

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CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DETAILS

NAME: Shéri Alida Brynard

CALLED: Shéri

AGE: 36

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 special award by Motheo College.

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Sheri is also the first 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 was 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 visits London and speaks 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 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".

2017

Sheri received an invitation to attend and address the Self Advocacy Conference in Geneva 21st March 2017.The theme of the conference: MyVoiceMyCommunity. Down syndrome international will be hosting the event at the United Nations Office Geneva (UNOG) Palais des Nations, in the form of an ‘Open Dialogue’ with the UN Committee members of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), the Human Rights Council and ambassadors from the various countries.

There was an opening session where Vanessa dos Santos, (President DSi), the Brazilian Ambassador and Sheri, as the DSi representative, addressed the audience.   Sheri, as the DSi representative, represented all people with Down syndrome in the world and talked about issues relating to their inclusivity and the policies that may affect them.

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 was launched all over South Africa from September to November 2017.

Sheri was asked to be part of a Down syndrome online summit, organised from Bonn, Germiny. She had to present a speech online. This speech and the questions she answered, was presented on the internet in June/July 2017.

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2018

Sheri has been chosen by her Down syndrome peers as the official spokesperson (chairman) with Down syndrome, representing Down syndrome South Africa.

Sheri’s book was nominated for:

The Andrew Murray-Desmond Tutu prize acknowledges Christian and theological publications in an official South African language. The winner will receive R20 000 and a trophy. The winners will be announced on the 25th of May in Stellenbosch.

24-27 July: Sheri will address the World Down Syndrome Congress in Glasgow, Scotland.

30-31 July: Sheri will address an Education Symposium at the Oxord University.

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.

11-13 December: Delivered a paper at an “Education Symposium” in Oxford, UK. First time ever for a person with Down syndrome.

2015

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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

7-10 February: Attended and addressed the Inclusion Africa General Assembly. Conference.

20 March: Sheri addressed a lunchtime seminar at the IHTTI School of Management in Neuchâtel in Switzerland.

21 March: She attended the Self Advocacy workshop in Geneva, Switzerland: Where they prepared for the next day’s side event.

22nd March: Sheri addressed a side Event at the UN in Geneva. It was an 'Open Dialogue’ where they discussed issues with policy makers, the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Human Rights Council and ambassadors from the various countries.

This is a very important high level event. Vanessa dos Santos (President, Down syndrome international) facilitated this. Sheri as the DSi representative (representing all people with Down syndrome) will address the meeting.

1 April: Presented a half day workshop of the Belmatt Healthcare Training group in London.

5 April: Presented a key note address at a conference of the Royal Society of Medicine in London.

23 May: Main speech at the gala dinner of the National Conference of the ATKV (Afrikaanse taal en kultuur vereniging) in Buffelspoort.

25 May: Presented an opening speech at the Inclusive Education Forum, held in the Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg.

10-12 July: Presented a key note address at the 10th World nursing and healthcare Conference in Berlin, Germany.

20 October: Sheri is asked to address the SAICA Conference in the Alpine Health Resort in the Drakensberg

2018

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24-27 July: Sheri will address the World Down Syndrome Congress in Glasgow, Scotland.

30-31 July: Sheri will address an Education Symposium at the Oxord University.

CAREER

2001 Appointed as assistant at Smiley Kids Nursery School in Bloemfontein

2001-2008 Student at Motheo College

2007-2018 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

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT in the form of public speeches

1996-April 2018

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.

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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 Fan court, 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 BloemfonteinKeynote 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 Northern 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

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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.

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.

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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.

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 School in Bloemfontein.

Guest speaker at an evening for stars in Kathu.

Motivational speaker at a ladies’ morning hosted by Wilgehof Dutch Reformed Church, Bloemfontein.

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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 Technicon, Bloemfontein, attended by more than 1 000 learners from across the province.

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.

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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.

Motivational speaker at a Presbyterian 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.

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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.

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.

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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 function.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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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).

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.

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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.

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 at 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.

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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.

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.

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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 Sutterheim. High School in the morning.

5 February: Delivered a motivational speech at a community function in Sutterheim 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.

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 Cheetahs (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 Prudential 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 Konica Minolta Business Solutions in at their awards dinner.

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.

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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 Sate and Northern 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 South Africa is on the working group.

26 July: Sheri addressed the presidential working group on Disabilities in Pretoria.

29 July: Sheri addressed the staff of Old Mutual (Free State) to motivate them. Bloemfontein.

30 July: Sheri addressed a community function of the Reformed church of Carletonville.

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 sermon 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 at 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 October: Deliver a talk at a sermon 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 autistic children at the Willem Postma primary school in Bloemfontein.

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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: Addressed a function of Down syndrome Free State at Moolmanshoek.

7-10 February: Attended and addressed the Inclusion Africa General Assembly. Conference.

11 February: Addressed a community function in Edenburg.

13 February: Addressed schools in Westonarea, Johannesburg.

4 March: Sheri and co-artist performed their Flagship production which will be performed at the Free State Arts Festaval en July, in Noupoort, Cape Province.

20 March: Sheri addressed a lunchtime seminar at the IHTTI School of Management in NeuchActel in Switserland.

21 March: She attended the Self Advocacy workshop in Geneva, Switzerland

21st March: Sheri was invited to a dinner at the Brazilian Ambassadors residence.

22nd March: Sheri was invited to address a side Event at the UN in Geneva. It was an 'Open Dialogue’ where they discussed issues with policy makers, the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Human Rights Council and ambassadors from the various countries. This was a very important high level event to try to change the circumstances of all people with Down syndrome. Sheri as the DSi representative (representing all people with Down syndrome) addressed the meeting.

25 March: Sheri spoke at a community function, GWK Karoofees in De Aar.

1 April: Presented 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.

In London: 30 March to 30 April.

16 May: Address the South African Education Union in Bloemfontein

18 May: Address the annual seminar of RealNet Holdings in Johannesburg.

23 May: Main speech at the gala dinner of the National Conference of the ATKV (Afrikaanse taal en kultuur vereniging) in Buffelspoort.

24 May: Address the South African Girl’s school Association Conference in Bloemfontein.

25 May: Do an opening speech at the Inclusive Education Forum, held in the Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg.

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27 May: Speak at a National Woman Conference in Bloemfontein.

3 June: Address a function of the Gateway school in Johannesburg.

9 Junie: Sheri will address a ladies function to help raise funds for the Angel Foundation, who assists disadvantaged woman.

15 June: She will motivate the staff of Newtons Chartered Accountants in Bloemfontein.

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 with Ane van den Berg, at the Free State Art Festival three times. They received standing ovatios every time.

2 August: Addressed Klerksdorp Hoërskool in Klerksdorp in the morning

2 August: Addressed a function of the Doringkruin congregation in Klerksdorp in the evening

3 August: Addressed Hoërskool Wesvalia in Klerksdorp.

19 August: Sheri addressed a function of 800 people, in aid of orphanages in Pretoria.

7 September: She addressed a gala dinner to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the body to help people with disabilities in Cape Town. Her book was also launched.

27 September: Addressed a National Conference of the Woman Agricultural Union in Pretoria in the morning.

27 September: Afternoon, she addressed the learners of the Waterkloof High School in Pretoria.

7 October:. She will address a function held by Rozenheim old age home in Bloemfontein

12 October: Sheri appears on “Afternoon Express” on SABC3 as guest on their program.

13 October morning: Sheri addressed the laerners and staff of the Paarl Highschool, for physically disabled learners in Brackenfell.

13 October: lunch hour: Sheri was interviewed by an English radio statio, Cape Talk, in Cape Town.

13 October evening: Sheri addressed a fundraising functions in Bloubergstrand, Cape Town

14 October: Addreed a fundraising function of the Hugenote School in Wellington.

14 October: Sheri’s book launch in Cape Town. She addressed more than 90 people at the Alta du Toit-center in Bellville.

17 October: Sheri addressed the English final year education students of the University Free State in Bloemfontein.

17 October: Sheri addressed the Afrikaans final year education students of the University Free State in Bloemfontein.

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18 October: A litNet article appears about Sheri’s book: http://www.litnet.co.za/sheri-brynard-nes-ek-n-onderhoud-met-sheri/

18 October: Sheri addressed a fundraising function of Down syndrome Free State, in Bloemfontein.

19 October: Sheri does a telephone interview with the CCFM (Cape Town radio station) .

19 October: Sheri’s book launch in Bloemfontein

20 October: Sheri is asked to address the SAICA Conference in the Alpine Health Resort in the Drakensberg.

27 October: Invited to address a charity function held by the Jannie Brink Special School in Kimberley.

28 October: Morning, Sheri is invited to sign her book at Exclusive books in Bloemfontein.

28 October: Invited to address a function of the Finesse ladies of the University Free State

3 November: Sheri’s book launch in George and she speaks at a fundraising to help a learner finantially.

4 November: Invited to address a function of the NG Church in Danabaai, Eastern Cape.

5 November: Sheri addresses the Hantam congregation outside George.

11 November: Sheri’s book launch in Johannesburg, with DSSA.

13 November: Sheri’s presentation is part of an online summit about Down syndrome in Germany..

17 November: Sheri addresses the annual general meeting of FEDSAS ( Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools, a voluntary association of governing bodies of public schools). 

28 November: Sheri is interviewed by Radio Pulpit in Cape Town.

6 December: Sheri will do an interview with “Groot Ontbyt” about her book. It will be broadcasted on television and radio.

6 December: Sheri addresses a group of people at book launch in Pretoria.

13 December: Sheri will address a function held by Toyata South Africa in Durban.

25 Des: Sheri gave a testimony at the Christmas ceremony at an outside amphitheatre in Hartenbos, which was attended by a few thousand people.

2018

15 January: Sheri is interviewed by the radio station, RSG, the interview was broadcasted directly.

21 Januarie: Addressed the community of Riversdal in the Cape Province.

27 January: Addresed a mother and daughter function of Duineveld High in Upington.

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7 February: Sheri addressed the following schools/ communities in Ladybrand:

-Yeshua College and a school in Manyatseng, as well as the community and business people. (English).

-Ladybrand Primary school and parerents and teachers of the special school Hermana (Afrikaans and English)

-Ladybrand Secondary school, with more than 500 learners (Afrikaans and English).

1 March: Sheri addressed a function in Windhoek, Namibië.

2 March: Sheri was interviewed live by the Republikein, a Namibian paper on facebook, after they wrote a feature about her visit in Windhoek

3 March: Sheri addressed a fundraising function for a school with children with special needs in Swakopmund, Namibia.

7-9 March: Sheri attended the self-advocacy symposium in Pretoria, South Africa.

10 March: Sheri addressed the community of Steynsrus in the Free State.

14 March: Shei addressed the community of Hoopstad and Hoopstad High school and also spoke about her book.

17 March: Sheri addressed a function in Delmas, near Johannesburg.

19 March: Sheri addressed staff of the Motheo TVET College, Hillside View Campus.

21 March: Sheri addressed the community of Katu Northen Cape

21 March: Sheri did an interview with Radio Diza in the Western Cape.

27 March: Sheri did a two hour interview with Radio Rosestad.

14 April: Sheri addressed a fundraising function in Clocolan, Eastern Free State.

21 April: Sheri addressed the community of Britz near Johanesburg.

5 May: Sheri addressed the community of Van der Bijl park, near Johanesburg.

11 May: Morning: Sheri addressed the leadership conference of the SAOU teachers symposium in East London.

11May: Evening: Sheri addressed a community function in Port Alfred.

12 May: Sheri addressed a function to change perceptions about people with Downs in PE.

19 May: Invited to address a function held by the primary school Durbanville at Eensgezind, outside Durbanville, Cape Town.

25 May: Prize giving: Sheri book was nominated for the following prize:

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The Andrew Murray-Desmond Tutu prize acknowledges Christian and theological publications in an official South African language. The winner will receive R20 000 and a trophy. The winners will be announced on the 25th of May in Stellenbosch.

26 May: Sheri will address a mother and daughter function to help children attend a tour overseas, in Bloemfontein.

30 May: Sheri will address a community function to motivate a group of woman in Bloemfontein.

2/3 June: Asked to address a community function in Elliot, Eastern Cape.

9 June: Sheri will be part of a fund raising tee to raise funds for the Angel Foundation in Heidedal, Bloemfontein.

16 Junie: Asked to address a community function in Amalia, South Africa.

24-27 July: Sheri will address the World Down Syndrome Congress in Glasgow, Scotland.

30-31 July: Sheri will address an Education Symposium at the Oxord University.

1-5 August: Sheri will address communities in England and be part of research

18 August: Sheri will address a Disability conference in Pretoria.

18 August: Sheri will address a function in Vereeniging.

2 September: Sheri will address a morning function of the Wilgerivier High School, inFrankfurt, South Africa.

15 September: Sheri will address a function in Villiers.

6 October: Sheri will address a function in Centurion, Pretoria.

13 October: Sheri will address a function in Barkly-Oos

3 November: : Sheri will address a function in Petrusburg, Free State.

2019

7 March  2019: Sheri is invited to address the sircle conference of the Woman Agricultural Union of the Western Cape.

CULTURAL ACHIEVEMENTS

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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. They received standing ovations for every 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

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):

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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 Radio and Television

1993: Sarie Moederskap 1998: Finesse1999: 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 discouraged2009: Radio talk on RSG about being a person with Down syndrome achieving a diplomaRadio talk on Radio Metro about the life of a person with Down syndrome in the academic world, and what one can achieve despite problemsArticle in Sibaleni nathi, a magazine focusing on people with Down syndrome, about being the first person with Down syndrome to receive a diplomaArticles in the papers Volksblad, Die Burger and Beeld on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndromeArticle in the paper Express on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndromeArticle in the paper Voices of Change on achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndromeHuisgenoot and YOU article about achieving a diploma as a person with Down syndromeArticles 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 AfricaHeadline story in Volksblad (3 August) headed “Hemelkindjie bekoor kongres” about speech Shéri delivered at NAPTOSA’s annual meeting in KimberleyGuest 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

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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: RSG interview, 24 JulyGuest on Radio Oranje breakfast show, 24 JulyGuest on television actuality programme Kwêla on kykNET, 1 August

2012RSG interview in English, 6 AugustRSG interview, 7 August (Afrikaans)Broadcast of the Woman of the Year gala event in Johannesburg on Mzansi Magic, 8 and 9 AugustInterview on Morning live in the Western Cape, 14 AugustRadio interview on KFC Radio in the Western Cape following Shéri’s speech at the International Down Syndrome Convention, 15 AugustBroadcast of her appearance in the TV soap Binneland, 31 July-9 AugustFeature on Shéri on the television programme The Dr Mol Show, 19/26 OctoberFeature about Shéri titled “Against all odds”, Channel 403, 26 OctoberArticle in O, Oprah Magazine, “Our heroine: Shéri Brynard”, NovemberAppear on the webpage of Down Syndrome International (DSi) as international ambassador for Down syndromeShéri’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

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.

201321 March: Sheri appears on “Against All Odds” on TV 3.28 May: Story about Sheri on E Tv at 9:30.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.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 9:30July: A follow up story on Sheri on the program “Against All Odds” on ETV was filmed and broadcasted the week before Christamas 2013Many more articles in many languages: Google Sheri Brynard

2014A 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

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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.

2015Sheri 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.Article in an international journal: Kids Nation Magazine, edition 7, September/October 2015.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. 2016Featured 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.2017A full feature article in the international Kids Nation magazine for the third time.A documentary of Sheri was featured by Belgium the television. Sheri was featured in Beeld, Burger and Volksblad about her visit to address the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.12 October: Sheri appears on “Afternoon Express” on SABC3 as guest on their program.13 October: lunch hour: Sheri was interviewed by an English radio statio, Cape Talk, in Cape Town.14 October: Sheri’s book launch in Cape Town. She addressed more than 90 people at the Alta du Toit-center in 18 October: A litNet article appears about Sheri’s book: http://www.litnet.co.za/sheri-brynard-nes-ek-n-onderhoud-met-sheri/Many aricles in Volksblad, Bloemnuus, Huisgenoot and Rapport about Sheri’s book.26 October: Article in The Weekly, Free State Province: One on One wth Sheri Brynard10/20 October: Articles in Art and Entertainment, Mossel Bay;.22 October: An article on Sheri’s book in Rapport.25 October: Two page aricle in Rooi Rose magazine.1 November: Two articles about Sheri’s book in “Die Lig” magazine.8 November: An interview with Sheri will be broadcasted on Radio Disa10 Nvember: Mossel Bay advertiser aricle: Skrywer se verhaal stof tot nadenke.22 November: Article in the Tygerberger, Cape Town. 28 November: Sheri is interviewed by Radio Pulpit in Cape Town. 6 December: Sheri will do an interview with “Groot Ontbyt” about her book. It will be broadcasted on television and radio.26 December: Two hour interview on Radio Pulpit.Many more articles in many languages: Google Sheri Brynard

201815 January: Interview Radio RSG2 March: Interview with a Namibian paper (Republikein) on facebookMany articles in many papers in Namibia and South Africa21 March: Interview with Radio Disa27 March: A two hour interview with Radio Rosestad.

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Article in the Delmas paper about Sheri’s presentation there.

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 ETV, after a program on television.Ramabulana    - /  

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 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

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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 a school in London:

Lord Wandsworth CollegeLong Sutton, Hook, Hampshire RG29 1TB

Dear Mr CoetzerI 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.

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.

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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

Dear Sheri,

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for coming to talk to us today. I walked into school earlier than usual this morning to get a coffee ; expecting to have a normal day of classes . It was by chance that I had the pleasure of meeting both you and your lovely mother , after which you very kindly invited me to your presentation .I don't believe it was a coincidence that this happened.I came into school feeling weak, vulnerable and jaded , and after listening to you speak I left school today feeling inspired and determined to keep pushing through , to keep fighting the way you did .when you quoted Winston Churchill saying when your going through hell keep going ; it touched my heart to see the strength you have inside you .I pray the lord gives me the strength to face my own challenges with the same courage and pride that you have showed in fighting through your own personal challenges . The strength you have shown in the face of adversity gives me strength . I Admire your courage , stubbornness and pride and want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your story with me because you have inspired me . You made me realize that true strength comes from inside and that it's ok to get knocked down as long as you get back up. Your story encourages me to persevere . I wish you all the best in your personal life and in your career and i hope you continue to inspire and motivate others the way you have inspired me today.I would like to congratulate you on your admirable work of challenging the perceptions surrounding people with learning difficulties and for showing to the world that we are all special , we are all perfect because we are Gods creation. I wish you the best of luck for your speech at the UN , I know you will do great . Speak with the same passion, honesty , humility and pride that you displayed today and I have no doubt you will change the world.Kindest regards,ShaneIHTTI School of Management in NeuchActel in Switserland.

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Prof JJ Jansen about Sheri’s book:

You have not seen resilience until you have read this uplifting story of an extraordinary young South African. Born with Downs Syndrome, Sheri Brynard defied all odds by achieving a teaching qualification and becoming an international ambassador on behalf of those with this genetic condition. The book is also a heart-warming account about the loving relationship between a mother and a daughter as they face down the challenge of Downs syndrome. Their story inspires and educates at the same time, and makes one’s own struggles pale into insignificance. Read with a full tissue box at hand.

From: Maretha Maartens (strydomsuster@gmail.com) 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 .

Beste Susette en Shéri

 Ek het gister julle boek klaar gelees.  Wat ʼn inspirasie!  Dankie dat julle julle harte en lewens met soveel mense deel.

 Baie dankie dat julle op 17 November by ons FEDSAS funksie was.  Dit wat julle doen en wat in die boek geskryf is, is goud werd vir mense wat hulle met die onderwys doenig hou.  Kyk wat skryf Dricus Bosman, self ʼn man wat sy been verloor het, en een van ons raadslede in Mpumalanga, op Facebook oor daardie aand:

 

As jy ooit die geleentheid kry om na Shéri Brynard te gaan luister, gryp dit met albei hande aan! Hierdie inspirerende jong vrou is uniek. Soos sy verduidelik maak haar een ekstra chromosoom haar anders. Sy is 'n Downsindroom lyer. Dit het nie hierdie botteltjie energie onder gekry nie. Sy leef haar lewe meer voluit en bereik meer hoogtes as baie mense wat ek ken wat nie verstandelik gestrem is nie. Sy gryp letterlik die dag! Hierdie jong vrou was al gasspreker by die United Nations, Oxford Universiteit, Geneva Switserland en Indië om maar net 'n paar uit te lig. Sy wen verskeie toekennings waaronder die Checkers-vrou-van-die -jaar vir young movers, iets wat sy wegraap voor die neus van meer as 'n duisend genomineerde vroue wat almal normaal is. Sy verwerf haar Nasionale Diploma in 'n onderwysrigting sonder enige toegewings en is tans 'n assistent by 'n Kleuterskool. Om die prentjie nog minder rooskleurig te maak val haar pa af by die Augrabies

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Waterval en sterf. So is sy op 16 jarige ouderdom een van die grootste heldefigure in haar lewe kwyt. Sy laat haar steeds nie onderkry nie en publiseer 'n boek, "Nes ek is." sy bepleit dat aborsies gestop word op babas wat vroeë tekens van Downsindroom toon sodat hulle 'n kans op lewe kan hê. Ek raak stil. Ek dink aan haar ma, Suzette, wat 'n kosbare kruik in God se Hande is, 'n moderne Maria wat haar kruik vul en al die eerbetoon wat sy ontvang soos kosbare mirre-olie oor die Voete van haar Meester giet. God is in haar oë. Beide hierdie vroue gee alle eer aan God, waar dit hoort. hulle vier die volheid van hul lewens ten spyte van hul kruis en maak daarvan 'n geleentheid in plaas van 'n verleentheid. Hulle laat my skuldig voel omdat ek soms sug en omdat ek toelaat dat klein lewensopdraendetjies vir my berge word. If you can dream it, you can be it! Carpe Diem. Dankie FEDSAS vir heirdie uitmuntende gepaste spreker by ons afsluiting vanjaar.

 

In hierdie jaar waarin die saak oor godsdiens op skool in die howe gedraai het en ek die haat, nyd, venyn en lasterlike beledigings teenoor Christene en myself ervaar het, is julle getuienis oor ʼn lewende verhouding met Jesus en die werklikheid van sy liefde, ʼn vars bries wat deur my hart en lewe waai.

 Sooo baie dankie dat julle op kort kennisgewing ingestem het om by ons op te tree.  Al die mense wat daar was is op een of ander manier by onderwys betrokke en julle getuienis gaan regoor SA weergalm.

 Mag die Here julle oorvloedig seën in hierdie spesiale tyd van die jaar en elke dag vorentoe in julle lewens.

 

Vriendelike groete

 Paul ColditzUitvoerende Hoof / CEOFEDSASSel / Cell: 082 414 5359Tel: 051 5226903Faks / Fax: 086 512 9603  www.fedsas.org.za

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