Hi, I’m
Zani Jacobs
Growth Strategist And Deputy Principal
Gauteng
Summary
Purpose-driven professional with over 26 years of experience spanning education, executive administration, operations management, and organisational leadership. Proven ability to lead teams, manage budgets, coordinate complex operations, develop systems and policies, and build strategic partnerships. Experienced in Montessori education, school leadership, executive support, financial administration, and stakeholder engagement. Recognised for strong organisational skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to delivering meaningful impact within organisations and communities
Overview
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Be My Mom Kids Hotel and Montessori
Co-Founder, Growth Strategist and Deputy Principal
02.2025 - Current
Job overview
- Overview: Be My Mom Kids Hotel & Montessori (BMM Montessori) is a registered NPO and cooperative that provides inclusive, high-quality Montessori education and childcare in Soweto. The school integrates Montessori principles with community upliftment, inclusive education, and family-centred services.
- Key Achievements & Responsibilities:
- Spearheaded the strategic growth and transformation of BMM from a small ECD centre into a structured, Montessori-based institution serving children aged 0-6 years.
- Designed and implemented Montessori-aligned curriculum, ensuring fidelity to child-led learning principles and inclusive practices.
- Established and led a multidisciplinary team including teachers, therapists, and support staff, promoting professionalism and continuous development.
- Launched the Inclusive Education Wing, providing early intervention for children with autism and developmental delays.
- Oversaw daily operations, enrolment, parent engagement, and classroom standards to ensure excellence in learning and care.
- Directed fundraising and partnerships, including grant proposals, donor communication, and government engagement.
- Managed financial planning, payroll structuring, and compliance processes for NPO and cooperative entities.
- Led branding, communication, and community outreach, enhancing visibility through crowdfunding campaigns, media, and social engagement.
- Developed comprehensive school policies, HR systems, and governance frameworks aligned with South African labour and education legislation.
- Fostered a strong Montessori culture that values diversity, respect, and empowerment for both children and educators.
Alphabet Montessori Schools and Hotels
Founder and Visionary in Development
12.2006 - 01.2007
Job overview
- Overview: Alphabet Montessori Schools & Hotels is a visionary concept inspired by my personal experience as a mother raising three young children a year apart, often far from family support. The initiative aims to redefine early childhood care by merging Montessori education, 24-hour childcare, and family support in one holistic model.
- Focus Areas:
- Data Conceptualising a premium Montessori brand that integrates education, wellness, and hospitality.
- Responsibilities:
- Conceptualising the business model, governance structure, and franchise framework for sustainable rollout.
- Developing innovative programmes blending Montessori philosophy with hotel-style convenience for modern families.
- Building the required logistics, assets, and operational systems to prepare for pilot launch.
University of the Western Cape - Residences Committee
Public Relations Officer
04.2004 - 11.2005
Job overview
- Responsibilities:
- Personal Assistant to Senior Management and Executives | July 2007 to April 2011
- Responsibilities & Achievements:
- Provided executive-level administrative support to the Senior Managers and Executives, overseeing office operations and communication.
- Managed the department’s operational budget, including preparing financial reports, reconciliations, and expenditure summaries.
- Coordinated meetings, workshops, and conferences, including logistics and managed reception area and switchboard.
- Directed official correspondence, minutes, and strategic reports for internal and provincial submissions.
- Oversaw travel arrangements, procurement, and document control systems.
- Maintained accurate filing systems and safeguarded confidential information.
- Managed reception and switchboard operations for senior management offices.
SA Metal
Office Administrator
06.2004 - 03.2005
Job overview
- Responsibilities:
- Managed customer invoicing over 100 accounts.
- Assisted the Director in managing day-to-day school operations.
- Supported office logistics and administrative coordination.
- Conducted parent tours and assisted with admissions.
- Maintained children's files, attendance records, and classroom documentation.
Anglo American Properties
Receptionist
07.2000 - 01.2002
Job overview
- Responsibilities:
- Managed reception, switchboard, and office communications.
- Assisted pensioners with medical aid administration.
- Coordinated meetings, boardroom booking, and catering logistics.
- Served as Department Safety Representative.
Studio Quatro (Head Office for Edgars)
Receptionist / Switchboard Operator
11.1999 - 07.2000
Job overview
- Responsibilities & Achievements:
- Operated switchboard and managed front-desk operations.
- Oversaw petty cash, stationery, and staff name badge systems.
- Liaised between store branches and head office.
Education
HeadStart Mercy Montessori Training Centre
International Diploma from ECD Montessori Teaching
University Overview
NQF Level 6
University of the Western Cape
BCom Information System
01-2006
University Overview
Incomplete
Kelly Greenacres College
Diploma from Public Relations Secretarial Course
01-1999
Mondeor High School
Matric
01-1997
Skills
Leadership & Management
Strategic Planning & Organisational Growth
Team Leadership, Coaching & Staff Development
Project & Programme Management
Governance, Compliance & Policy Development
Education & Curriculum
Montessori Pedagogy & Early Childhood Development
Inclusive Education & Special Needs Support
Curriculum Design & Learning Environment Setup
Parent Engagement & Communication
Finance & Administration
Budget Management & Financial Reporting
Payroll Setup, UIF Registration & HR Systems
Office Administration & Operational Efficiency
NPO & Cooperative Governance
KEY INFORMATION
- ID: 8006300316089
- Driver’s Licence: Code 08
- Notice Period: None
Timeline
Co-Founder, Growth Strategist and Deputy Principal
Be My Mom Kids Hotel and Montessori
02.2025 - Current
Founder and Visionary in Development
Alphabet Montessori Schools and Hotels
12.2006 - 01.2007
Office Administrator
SA Metal
06.2004 - 03.2005
Public Relations Officer
University of the Western Cape - Residences Committee
04.2004 - 11.2005
Receptionist
Anglo American Properties
07.2000 - 01.2002
Receptionist / Switchboard Operator
Studio Quatro (Head Office for Edgars)
11.1999 - 07.2000
Mondeor High School
Matric
Kelly Greenacres College
Diploma from Public Relations Secretarial Course
University of the Western Cape
BCom Information System
HeadStart Mercy Montessori Training Centre
International Diploma from ECD Montessori Teaching