Anneen Maree
Partner and Chief Ecosystem Orchestrator
at What Matters
Bloemfontein, South Africa
Anneen is a dedicated community development leader and business project manager with a passion for empowering rural communities through locally driven solutions. With a decade of hands-on experience in rural community planning, Anneen has a robust foundation in municipal and strategic planning, backed by her knowledge as an agricultural professional. Her expertise spans from township economic development to sustainable community initiatives, focusing on creating impact that aligns with the true needs of the people.
Anneen’s journey has seen her transform communities with innovative projects that reflect her commitment to empowering local voices and resources. Among her notable achievements are the Manyatseng Vegetable Production and Processing Initiative, the Plastic Recycling Project, and the Sepheo Foot Bridge in Lesotho—each demonstrating her belief in the potential within communities to drive sustainable growth. Her ability to listen, adapt, and lead community-centered projects exemplifies her dedication to fostering a regenerative ecosystem. Passionate and purpose-driven, Anneen is a champion for communities, working to bridge the gap between local aspirations and sustainable, long-term impact.
Some of Anneen’s most recent community projects:
Manyatseng Vegetable Production and Processing Initiative
(project handed over to the community in 2017)
Produced and processed vegetables for local distribution within the district.Manyatseng Plastic Recycling
(discontinued 2020)
A community initiative collecting plastic cooldrink bottles and other plastics. Plastic bottle bricks were made and used to make tables, chairs, benches and rubbish bins, strategically placed within the community.Sepheo Foot Bridge, Kingdom of Lesotho
(project handed over to the community in 2021)
Constructed a foot bridge for the community using donations and community volunteers, with assistance from professionals at no cost.Manyatseng Residents Association
(established 2022)
Establishing a resident’s association to offer community assistance in managing and maintaining projects and initiatives.Manyatseng Old Age Home
(project taken over by local authorities 2022)
Revitalized dilapidated structures and cleaned the property.Mangaung Business Development Initiative
(still running)
Worked with Freedom Square and Namibia township communities to identify and create small township businesses, promoting a sustainable township business network.