Monica Woodhouse

  • What do you like about working at GCF?
    • I love the team, the collaboration, the diversity of skills and the children’s voices and laughter when we are at the centre.
  • What have you learned working at GCF?
    • I have learned that God is faithful and He has never left us alone. Faith and Works are part of a holistic approach, we need to do what we can, and God does what He can.
  • What role do you fulfil at GCF?
    • I am the Executive Director of GCF.
  • What are the values that drive you? 
    • Integrity, Compassion, Consistency, Honour, Respect, Loyalty, Kindness
  • What is your background?
    • I grew up in rural South Africa, sleeping on cow-dung floors, playing and making clay oxen by the river, to being called a racist (and other derogatory names)all because of my skin colour and associations.  My parents were not wealthy, but they shared what they had. I look back at the rich history and great legacy I had (my parents were missionaries)and I love the diversity that my life resembles, born in Swaziland, grew up in South Africa, and have Swedish roots. That is where the name SwaSwediCan comes from.  I have worked with children and families, most of my life, having matriculated in Kempton Park in 1976. I went onto doing many courses in Counselling, Therapy, Marriage, Family, and Biblical Training. Co-Founded the organisation The Place of Restoration Trust together with my husband Basil, from very small beginnings, like a seed planted to a large Oak Tree, where there has been shelter for many a children and families over the years.