Community at Heart
and in Mind

"A compassionate care model that uplifts and empowers neurodiverse individuals to find new ability, heal from trauma, and thrive."

Who Are We?

We support and cultivate wellness of neurodiverse individuals within our community.

We assist individuals and families to find a new ability, to heal from trauma and to learn coping strategies to deal with everyday stressors. Our Learning Programmes are based on an individual's needs assessment, ensuring optimal learning and social experiences.

Our Mission

A compassionate care model that uplifts and empowers ND individuals. We encourage healthy relationships between peers and foster creativity, ensuring no demographic is neglected.

Compassion

Connection

Support

Neurodiversity

About Us

Fostering meaningful connections and celebrating diversity.

Team Meeting

Our History

Whaikana started small, with only two learners. We realised that there are not enough Autism specialists and support systems to develop the full potential of students on the Autism spectrum.

A whole demographic of people was neglected. Today, we have grown into a dedicated community committed to empowerment.

Vision

Vision & Mission

Whaikana has a holistic view when working with neurodiverse individuals. By fostering meaningful connections, honouring personal and family aspirations, and creating environments that celebrate neurodiversity, Whaikana ensures that every individual is seen, heard, and valued in their entirety.

Leadership Directors

The dedicated team driving our vision forward.

LF

L Fraser

Director
PB

P du Bruyn

Director
GM

G Matthews

Director

Our Core Values

  • Creativity: We explore new ideas and avenues by applying fresh thinking in our quest to support our students and their families.
  • Professional Development: We keep up to date with new research and protocols relating to our professional development.
  • Connection: We thrive on relationships and will always do our best to form a healthy relationship with all individuals connected to Whaikana.
  • Diversity: We respect the value system of all individuals, and we know that all our students have potential and unique abilities.

Youth & Education

Tailored support for critical development years.

Early Childhood

Early Childhood Development

Whaikana is dedicated to supporting the early childhood development of neurodiverse children with learning barriers, providing specialised services that nurture their cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth.

  • Tailored support for rapid brain development.
  • Personalised, play-based learning.
  • Focus on language, motor coordination, and emotional regulation.
Homeschool

Homeschool Academic Support

Whaikana offers structured academic support for homeschool learners from Grade R to Grade 7 who are enrolled in formal curricula such as Think Digital and Impaq.

  • Individualised, neurodiversity-affirming approach.
  • Reduces pressure and stress.
  • Collaborative work with families for continuity.

Adults & Wellness

Enrichment, personal growth, and holistic support.

Young Adults

Young Adults Daycare

A specialised, nurturing environment dedicated to the enrichment and personal growth of young adults with intellectual disabilities.

Fostering independence, life skills, art, music, & connection.
Counselling

Counselling

We believe in a well-integrated holistic approach that nurtures not only the neurodiverse individual but also their surrounding environment.

Assessing emotional needs and supporting the entire system.
Transitions

Compassionate Transitions

Grief support, legacy planning, and neurodivergent-informed advance directives.

Empowering families with clarity and peace.

Corporate Services

Building diverse and inclusive workforces.

Corporate Meeting

Business Consulting Services

In today's corporate climate, businesses are placing a higher emphasis on building diverse and inclusive workforces.

Inclusivity Guidance

Whaikana effortlessly guides companies through conversations about physical, mental, and social access in every setting for people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities.

Empowerment

Whaikana aims to leave the company empowered and confident in their inclusivity.

Contact & Fees

We welcome referrals from health professionals, schools, social workers, and families.

Get in Touch

Reach out to our directors or visit our centre in Gezina.

📞
Lilani Fraser 060 799 2104
📞
Genevieve Matthews 064 305 4194
📍
Location 333 10TH Avenue, Gezina, Pretoria

Support Us

Donations range from receiving of resources, food or even sponsorships for a specific neurodiverse person, for any of our services.

Investment Structure

Our transparent financial structure ensures accountability and sustainable services.

Service Cost
ECD / Young Adult Day Care
Monthly fee
R3 500
Counselling
Per session
R350
Coaching
Per programme
R1 200