Chairperson

Make a strategic impact in the lives of vulnerable children and youth.

The Homestead Projects for Street Children invites applications from committed, value-driven professionals to join its Governing Board. This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise to a well-established, credible organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of children and youth who have experienced neglect, abuse, and life on the streets.

For over two decades, The Homestead has delivered holistic programmes focused on prevention, early intervention, stabilisation, residential care, family reunification, and youth transition into independent living. We are a registered Non-Profit Organisation (NPO 003-217) and Public Benefit Organisation (PBO 130001038), fully compliant with South African regulatory frameworks, including the Children’s Act.

Position Description

The Homestead is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chairperson of the Governing Board. The successful candidate will provide independent leadership to the Board, ensuring sound governance, strategic oversight, accountability, and organisational sustainability.

The Chairperson will work closely with fellow Board Members and the Executive Leadership Team to guide the organisation in achieving its mission while upholding the highest standards of governance and ethical practice.

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking a respected and influential leader who brings:

·                     Proven board leadership and governance experience

·                     Strong strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities

·                     High ethical standards, integrity, and independence

·                     Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills

·                     Experience leading diverse teams and facilitating effective board performance

·                     A commitment to social justice and improving outcomes for vulnerable children and youth

Experience in one or more of the following areas will be advantageous:

·                     Non-profit governance and leadership

·                     Social development, child protection, or education

·                     Legal and regulatory compliance

·                     Finance, audit, or risk management

·                     Fundraising and resource mobilisation

·                     Corporate leadership and stakeholder engagement

Key Requirements

As Chairperson, you will:

·                     Provide effective leadership to the Governing Board

·                     Preside over Board and Annual General Meetings

·                     Ensure the Board fulfils its governance, fiduciary, and legal responsibilities

·                     Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership

·                     Guide the development and monitoring of organisational strategy

·                     Support succession planning and Board effectiveness

·                     Oversee governance, compliance, and risk management processes

·                     Act as a key ambassador for The Homestead and its mission

·                     Strengthen relationships with stakeholders, partners, and donors

·                     Support the Executive Director while maintaining appropriate governance oversight

TIME COMMITMENT

Board members are appointed for a two-year term, renewable at the discretion of the Board. Responsibilities include:

·         Attend approximately 4–5 Board/Committee meetings per year (combination of in-person and virtual)

·         Quarterly site visits to our centres (mandatory for Board Members)

·         Compulsory participation in the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September

·         Prepare for meetings through review of documentation

·         Occasional ad hoc engagement depending on organisational needs

Important Requirements

·         Must be based in Cape Town

·         Willingness to serve in a non-remunerated (voluntary) capacity Benefits: Unless otherwise determined by the Executive Director or HR and stated in the formal acting letter, acting allowances will not be treated as pensionable earnings and will not affect provident fund contributions or other benefits calculations. Any exception must be expressly approved in writing.

·         Availability to actively contribute time and expertise

Why join the Homestead

·         Be part of a respected and compliant organisation with a proven track record

·         Contribute to meaningful, measurable social impact

·         Apply your professional skills to a purpose-driven mission

·         Collaborate with a passionate and experienced leadership team

How to apply

Please submit the following to careers@thehomestead.org.za by 5 August 2026.

·         A motivation letter outlining your interest and relevant experience

·         A detailed CV

·         Two recent, contactable references

Due to the volume of applications, we regret that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and considered for election.

Join us in shaping a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive. For more information about The Homestead, please visit www.homestead.org.za.