Ruimsig May 2024

May 22, 2024

Rock and Shock 


In our new unit, "Where We Are in Place and Time," our Grade 2 students were surprised to discover their names individually displayed on a family tree in their classroom. Each class had created their own unique classroom family tree and named, Buggie Family, Disney Family, Fishy Family, and Fuzzle Family, representing each Grade 2 classroom. It was wonderful for them to see their work come to life. 


Our Crawfordians learnt the uses of Tinker CAD - an online 3D design and 3D printing App that allows users to create 3D models easily. The platform offers a range of tools and shapes that users can manipulate to design objects of their choice. The students personalised their leaves with their names, which were then 3D printed to form a collection of awesome classroom trees. 


These trees are more than just decoration; they represent each student's journey into the unit about family trees and family heritage. Through this project, our Grade 2s are not only developing design, mathematics, and technological skills but also creating deeper connections to their identities and histories. 

A group of children are posing for a picture in a classroom
A 3d printer is printing a green object on a table.


Students Experiment with Music 

 

The Grade 00 students are exploring the world of music and expression in our current unit of inquiry, "How we express ourselves." 

Using iPads, they've been experimenting with different instruments and have even formed little group bands. 


Inquiry-based learning like this encourages students to ask questions, explore topics deeply, and develop their understanding through hands-on experiences. By incorporating technology into our lessons, we are not just learning about music; we are also enhancing our digital skills and creativity. 


Stay tuned for updates on their performances. 

A group of children are sitting in a circle on the floor.
A group of children are sitting at a table using tablets.



Solar Success   


The Grade 5 students recently explored the world of solar energy with a hands-on project - pizza box solar ovens. 

In the experiment, students explored the principles of energy and insulation. They began by examining various materials to determine which could retain heat the longest. They then set out to construct their own solar ovens using simple materials, including pizza boxes, aluminium foil, and plastic wrap. 


After assembling their ovens, it was time to put them to the test. The students carefully placed a marshmallow inside each oven and positioned them to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight. As the sun worked its magic, the students observed in amazement as their marshmallows began to melt, proving the effectiveness of their solar ovens. 


It certainly proved to be an illuminating and enriching experience for everyone, that not only allowed students to gain a deeper understanding of solar energy and insulation but also fostered their creativity and problem-solving skills. 

Three young boys are sitting on the floor of a tennis court.
A group of children are sitting around a table in a classroom.


Robotic Surgery and "How the World Works" 

 

Our commitment to integrating innovative educational practices with real-world applications was showcased in our recent STEAM story. 


Linking seamlessly with our Unit of Inquiry, "How the World Works," and centred around the Central Idea that "Investigation and Experimentation Drive Innovation and Ethical Decision Making," our Grade 7 students embarked on a transformative journey into the world of science and technology. 


The focus of their exploration was the fascinating and rapidly evolving field of robotic surgery. This modern medical marvel highlights the critical role of science in everyday life, underscoring the responsibility we have in adopting and advancing scientific practices. Our students inquired into the intricacies of robotic surgery, investigating its current applications and future potential in the medical field. 


As part of their inquiry, the students had the opportunity to interview Dr Francois Duvenhage, a renowned urologist from the Urology Hospital in Pretoria. Dr Duvenhage provided invaluable insights into the future of robotic surgery, particularly discussing the capabilities of the da Vinci robot, a cutting-edge tool in the field. This interaction allowed our students to gain firsthand knowledge from an expert actively utilising these technologies. 


Is robotic surgery the future of medicine? Our Grade 7 students are certainly poised to find out, embodying the spirit of future doctors and innovators. Stay tuned as they continue their journey of discovery and invention, driven by their passion for science and their commitment to ethical decision-making in the world of tomorrow. 

A group of people are sitting around tables in a room.
A man is on a video call on a television screen.


Subject Choice Evening

 

College hosted our annual Grade 9 Subject Choice Evening for the Class of 2027.  It was an opportunity for our Grade 9 students to explore and understand the importance of choosing the right subjects for their future academic and career paths. 


Universities, subject tables with teachers, and senior students, as well as perspective parents, were all present to provide valuable insights and guidance. From discussing various faculties and career options to explaining the significance of each subject, the evening was packed with informative sessions to help our students make well-informed decisions. 


The event's high attendance reflects the interest of our students and parents in shaping their academic journey. Additionally, an information session was held to address any further queries and provide additional support. 


It is essential for students to consider their interests, strengths, and aspirations when making important decisions around their subjects. We are confident that the insights gained from this event will help our Grade 9s make informed choices and journey on a path that aligns with their goals and aspirations.

A group of people are standing around a table with a sign that says `` looking to study abroad ''.
Two girls are standing next to a table with a sign that says dramatic arts.


A Graffiti Workshop with Nomad 



Our Grade 10, 11, and 12 art students recently had the privilege of attending a graffiti workshop led by renowned artist Justin Nomad, aka Nomad. Justin Nomad is a multiple international design award winner, based in South Africa whose work can be found both locally and internationally in the UK, USA, and Asia. Justin shared his journey as an artist, from experimenting with graffiti to blending street art with social activism. He emphasised the importance of art in public spaces and its ability to start conversations and challenge perceptions. 


Nomad has transformed urban spaces into works of art for some of the world’s most important companies and people including Starbucks, Tiger Brands and YouTube stars like Jake Paul and Jojo Siwa. With his mastery of colour, form, and perspective, Justin Nomad has breathed new life into buildings, walls, and public spaces, turning them into canvases that capture the imagination and inspire wonder. 


During the workshop, the students had the opportunity to create their own graffiti pieces under Nomad's guidance, using spray paint to bring them to life, the workshop allowed them to experience the thrill of creating art in a way that is unconventional yet deeply meaningful. 


One of the highlights was a collaborative mural project, where the students worked together to create large-scale graffiti pieces. This project showcased their talents and taught them the value of #teamwork in the creative process. 

Overall, the graffiti workshop with Justin Nomad was a truly inspiring experience for the students. It not only exposed them to a new form of art but also challenged them to think differently about their own creative potential. 

As they left the workshop, they carried with them not just new skills but a newfound appreciation for the power of art to renovate spaces and inspire change. 


Some of Nomad’s art is available from, https://nomadsgallery.com. 

A group of people are posing for a picture in front of a graffiti wall.
A group of people are sitting at tables in a room.


Crawford Cares 

 

Our campus is on a mission to raise R25 000 for the Reach for a Dream foundation, and you can help us get there. Get your stickers on the Karri App today and wear your slippers with pride on Friday, 31 May 2024. With a minimum donation of R20 per sticker, every contribution, big or small, makes a huge difference! Let's show our support and bring smiles to those who need it most. Donate now and be a part of something special. 

A poster for slipper day on friday 31 may

The Science Behind How Children Learn Languages

January 30, 2026
Language development is essential to how students think, communicate and engage with learning. From early sounds to confident speech and writing, language grows through a close relationship between the brain, social interaction plus environment. Recent research continues to deepen our understanding of how children learn languages and how schools and parents can support this process with intention. How the Brain Learns Language Current neuroscience confirms that children are biologically prepared for language learning from birth. The early years remain a sensitive period for language development, during which the brain is especially responsive to sounds, rhythm and structure of language (Gabrieli et al., 2022). Language learning involves several connected brain regions. Areas linked to understanding meaning and producing speech work together through neural pathways that strengthen with repeated use. Studies using brain imaging show that these pathways develop through exposure and interaction rather than direct instruction alone (Skeide and Friederici, 2023). Importantly, the brain learns language through use in real contexts. Children learn words, sentence patterns and meaning by listening, responding and engaging in conversation. This explains why students benefit most from orals, storytelling and meaningful communication across home and school environments. Stages of Language Acquisition While every child develops at their own pace, language acquisition follows a broadly similar sequence. Early on students begin with babbling, experimenting with sounds and intonation. This stage helps the brain map speech sounds and prepares children for spoken language. Single words usually follow. These words often relate to people, objects or actions that are important in the child’s daily life. As understanding grows, children begin combining words into short phrases or sentences. This shows early awareness of meaning and structure. Over time, grammar develops. Sentences become more complex, vocabulary expands and students learn to adapt language for different purposes. By the early school years, most students can use language to explain ideas, ask questions and support learning across subjects (Clark, 2023). Factors That Influence Language Learning Language development is shaped by a combination of exposure, interaction and environment. Exposure to language is critical. Research shows that students who regularly hear varied and meaningful language develop stronger vocabulary and comprehension skills (Romeo et al., 2021). The quality of interaction matters as much as quantity. Responsive conversations, where adults listen and build on what children say, support deeper language growth. Parent child interaction, shared reading and discussion during everyday routines all play a key role. Play also supports language learning. Through play, children practise new words, negotiate meaning and use language socially. Recent studies highlight play as an important context for both spoken language and early literacy development (Weisberg et al., 2022). Bilingualism and Multilingualism Bilingual and multilingual language development continues to be an area of strong research interest especially in the South African school’s context. Evidence from the 2020s confirms that children can learn two or more languages successfully without negative effects on development (De Houwer, 2021). A common misconception is that bilingual children are confused or delayed. Research shows that bilingual students follow the same developmental stages as monolingual students, although vocabulary may be distributed across languages. Mixing languages is a normal and healthy part of bilingual development. There are also cognitive benefits associated with bilingualism. Recent studies link bilingual experience to stronger attention control, flexibility in thinking and awareness of language structure, especially when both languages are supported consistently (Bialystok and Craik, 2022). How Schools and Parents Can Support Language Learning Language development thrives when schools and families work together. Reading remains one of the strongest tools for language growth. Shared reading builds vocabulary, comprehension and confidence. Talking about stories, asking open questions and linking texts to real experiences deepens understanding. Conversation should be encouraged throughout the day. Teachers and parents can model clear, rich language by explaining ideas, introducing new words naturally and encouraging students to express their thinking through inquiry. Vocabulary can be scaffolded by introducing new words in context, revisiting them often and giving students opportunities to use them in speaking and writing. Visual support, discussion and examples all strengthen learning. Creating language-rich environments is essential. Classrooms and homes that value talk, curiosity and listening support students not only in language development, but across all subjects.  Language is not only a subject of study, but also the foundation through which students learn, connect and participate fully in the world.

Crawford International Class of 2025 | Building Global Leaders

January 16, 2026
The journey to building global leaders begins long before Matric year. For the Crawford International Class of 2025, it reflects three years of focused preparation, academic support and personal growth through the Crawford Matric Preparation Programme. In the 2025 Independent Examination Board National Senior Certificate examinations, Crawford International students achieved a total of 1 428 distinctions across the group. Twenty-one students recorded overall averages of 90% and above, placing them among the country’s top performers, while a further 126 students achieved averages between 80 and 89%. Among the group’s top academic performers are: Manzil Harikaran Giandev from La Lucia with 11 distinctions, including a 100% in Engineering Graphics Design Sashen Ramlal from Lonehill with 10 distinctions. Shweta Singh from Lonehill earned 9 distinctions. Dristhi Ramsumer from North Coast and Celia Wentzel from Sandton earned 9 distinctions. Sanjana Rajkaran from La Lucia earned 8 distinctions. Tayur Lushen Moodley from North Coast: 8 distinctions. Talia Govender and Keith Makadzange from Pretoria: 8 distinctions. Justin Sher and Mthokozisi Buthelezi from Sandton: 8 distinctions. Together, these students represent the highest individual academic achievements across the group. Beyond individual results, Crawford International students also earned national recognition through the IEB. Seven Commendable Achievement Awards were awarded to students ranked in the Top 5% nationally across five or more subjects. Eight Outstanding Achievement Awards were secured by students ranked in the Top 5% nationally across six or more subjects. Dr Siza Majola, Managing Director of Crawford International, shared: “Congratulations to the Matric Class of 2025. This milestone marks the culmination of years of commitment, perseverance and personal growth. You have faced challenges with resilience, embraced learning and demonstrated the determination required to succeed. As you step into the next chapter, remember that your Crawford education has equipped you with the confidence, leadership skills and values to navigate a world full of opportunity. Your achievements are also a reflection of the unwavering support of parents and teachers who walked this demanding journey with you. Their guidance and belief have played a vital role in your success. Well done, Matric Class of 2025. We are proud of all you have achieved and excited to see what lies ahead.” While these outcomes are academic in nature, Crawford International places equal value on leadership development, sport, service and collaboration. Students are encouraged to lead on the sports field, in cultural spaces, through student leadership structures and within their communities. This approach ensures that students leave school not only well prepared for tertiary study but equipped to contribute meaningfully to diverse environments. Distinctions by Campus: Crawford International Sandton College 370 distinctions Average of 3.6 distinctions per candidate Crawford International La Lucia College 316 distinctions Average of 3.19 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Pretoria College 219 distinctions Average of 2.55 distinctions per candidate Crawford International North Coast College 130 distinctions Average of 2.50 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Lonehill College 253 distinctions Average of 2.16 distinctions per candidate Crawford International Ruimsig College 140 distinctions Average of 1.75 distinctions per candidate Crawford International congratulates every student, teacher and family who contributed to this collective success. We wish the Class of 2025 the very best for the future.
Teacher Yvette Rautenbach, Crawford International Pretoria, smiles for

Meet Yvette Rautenbach: Inspiring a love for language at Crawford International Pretoria

November 21, 2025
Yvette Rautenbach is Crawford International’s own Renaissance woman: a coffee-loving, quiz-night ace, with a flair for fashion, a knack for interior décor, and a passion for rugby and cricket. But above all, Yvette lives and breathes teaching Afrikaans, bringing her inspired love of the language to her classrooms every day. The Road to Teaching With a BED Degree in Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and an Honours degree in Afrikaans from Stellenbosch University, Yvette has pursued her passion for Afrikaans all the way to becoming qualified to study for her master’s degree in 2009. Her journey began with a Grade 12 teacher who brought Afrikaans poetry and literature to life, and Yvette has been paying that inspiration forward ever since. More than Just Subject Matter For Yvette, teaching isn’t only about the curriculum. “How you make students feel can mean more than what you teach them,” she says. Her aim is to create a classroom where students feel supported, safe, and ready to thrive. She’s built connections that last long past graduation, and her proudest moments come from hearing from former students still grateful for her impact. A Day in the Life… Every day is fuelled by her favourite Nescafé Cappuccinos and her fantastic team of Crawford colleagues who, in her words, “make even the most challenging days better.” The autonomy Crawford provides allows her to shape lessons with creativity and passion, a freedom she believes benefits both students and teachers alike. Teaching Philosophy Yvette’s philosophy is simple: teaching with compassion is the key. She believes deeply in lifelong learning, knowing that the quality of her teaching drives the quality of her students’ learning. “Getting the best out of my students demands that I get the best out of me, too,” she says.
A child runs through an obstacle course on a school lawn, next to a Crawford International graphic.

How to Choose the Right School

August 18, 2025
A practical guide to choosing the right school for your child. Learn what factors to consider, what questions to ask, and how to make a confident, informed decision.
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Open Days and School Tours: What Parents Need to Know

July 18, 2025
A practical guide to school Open Days and campus tours. Learn what to look for, which questions to ask, and how to choose the right school for your child.
Keith Saramago, Crawford International alum, smiles. Text:

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KEITH Saramago

July 4, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KEITH Saramago Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2013 From a spirited student on the soccer field to a professional, navigating global financial markets, Keith Saramago’s journey is grounded in resilience, clarity and purpose. Keith matriculated from Crawford International Lonehill in 2013. One of his standout memories was helping his team win a soccer competition at an inter-campus event. “We were the underdogs, but we played with heart. That win taught me early on that belief and teamwork can shift outcomes,” he recalls. After school, Keith pursued a Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Financial Analysis at Stellenbosch University. There, he encountered mentors who guided him through his postgraduate studies and helped him understand how to shape his ambitions into a viable career path. “Those mentors helped me map out not only my strengths but also what to expect when entering a competitive field,” he says. Keith now works as a Treasury Dealer, focusing on foreign exchange and money market funds for various South African corporates. What keeps him engaged is the unpredictability of the work. “Financial markets respond to global trends in real time. No day is ever the same, and that constant shift is what I thrive on,” he shares. He credits Crawford for helping him build a strong foundation. “Crawford gave me the confidence to speak up and engage meaningfully with others. It helped me develop a point of view and the courage to stand by it,” he says. He also speaks to the importance of staying grounded. “Respecting others while remaining true to yourself is a lesson I continue to apply,” he adds. Outside the professional world, Keith treasures building a life with his wife, calling their marriage one of his proudest achievements. He stays in close contact with many of his former classmates and values those bonds deeply. “We still catch up often. Some of us have moved across the globe, but the friendships have remained intact.” Looking ahead, he plans to further his studies and explore new professional opportunities across the continent and abroad. His advice to current students is straightforward: “Identify what you love and pursue it with intention. Silence the noise and trust what you know is meant for you.”  Keith’s story reflects the balance between professional excellence and personal fulfilment and the courage to stay true to both.
Woman smiling in a floral top, Crawford International ad, text: Crafting Tomorrow's Leaders. Vanessa Majola, Crawford International La Lucia.

Teaching with Purpose, Passion and Precision

June 27, 2025
In the heart of Crawford International La Lucia’s Preparatory School, you will find a Mathematics classroom where curiosity is championed, and confidence is cultivated. At the centre of it all is Vanessa Majola, a dedicated teacher and Head of Mathematics who has been part of the Crawford community since 2018. With experience across schools in Germany and South Africa, Vanessa brings both global perspective and personal passion to her teaching. From the outset, her commitment to education has been clear. As a teenager, she taught Sunday School at her local church and later shadowed teachers during her Grade 9 year in Germany. The experience confirmed what she already sensed, teaching was more than a profession. It was a calling. Joy in the Journey “Some of my most rewarding moments come when a student realises that they can do Maths,” Vanessa says. “Watching them move from self-doubt to self-belief is powerful.” One such moment stays with her. A student who joined her Maths support group in Grade 4 had struggled with foundational concepts. Through steady support and the student's own determination, she eventually earned recognition for top Maths achievement in Grade 7. “It’s not just about marks,” Vanessa adds. “It’s about growth. It’s about ownership. That’s where the transformation lies.” Vanessa is quick to credit her students’ effort and resilience. “When they work together to solve complex problems or persist through a challenge, I see something special. They are not just learning Mathematics, they are learning how to learn.” A Crawford Classroom Built on Curiosity At Crawford La Lucia, Vanessa finds that students are motivated, hard-working and eager to take responsibility for their own progress. Many go beyond the curriculum, seeking out advanced topics and entering Mathematics competitions. It is an environment that celebrates both inquiry and rigour. What sets Vanessa apart is her commitment to teaching not only the how but the why. Her lessons are rich with visual and hands-on learning. She uses tools like GeoGebra to help students visualise abstract concepts, and she regularly incorporates manipulatives to support deeper understanding. Mistakes are welcomed and examined, not avoided. “They’re an essential part of the process,” she explains. “We unpack them together so students can learn from them.” Teaching Philosophy Vanessa’s teaching approach is deeply influenced by the quote from Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” For her, involvement is everything. She subscribes to an inductive style of teaching, providing students with examples and encouraging them to discover patterns and principles themselves. “It’s not about racing through content. There’s little value in covering a syllabus if it doesn’t actually connect with the students. I want them to think, to explore, to make meaning of what they are learning.” Thinking About the Future of Education While Vanessa embraces educational technology as a valuable asset, she sees human connection as irreplaceable. “Technology enhances what we do. It allows us to tailor learning, track progress and present content in dynamic ways. But at the heart of every great classroom is a teacher who understands and guides their students.” She believes the role of the teacher is evolving – from being the centre of knowledge to becoming a facilitator of deeper understanding. For Vanessa, this shift is essential if students are to leave school equipped not just with facts but with skills, adaptability and confidence. Inspiration and Advice  Inspired by the work of educational researcher Jo Boaler, Vanessa brings a growth mindset into her classroom every day. She reminds her students that mistakes are opportunities for brain growth, that challenges build cognitive strength, and that everyone is capable of learning Mathematics. To parents, she offers thoughtful encouragement: Focus on your child’s progress over comparison to others. Use language that nurtures resilience and curiosity. Emphasise effort and strategy over fixed ability. Remember that academic success is just one part of a child’s broader development. “Students are far more motivated when they realise that they have control over their outcomes,” she says. “That belief in possibility is what we need to foster in the classroom and at home.” In a world where education is evolving, Vanessa Majola remains rooted in what matters most, connection, curiosity and care. Her classroom is a space where students are not only learning Mathematics but discovering their capacity to think, grow and thrive.
Father and son reading a book together indoors, promoting parent-teacher partnerships.

Beyond the Classroom: The Role of Parents as Educational Partners

June 6, 2025
Explore how parents enhance learning beyond the classroom, support academic success, and strengthen the school-home partnership for better student outcomes.
Crawford International advertisement: Woman in graduation attire. Text:

Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill

May 30, 2025
Meet Mashudu Bhengu: Bringing out the best in her students at Crawford International Lonehill Teaches : Zulu to Grades 1-4 Qualifications: Bachelor of Education: Early Childhood and Foundation Phase (UNISA) Hobbies and interests: Avid reader and gym enthusiast – it keeps her sane and grounded! Teaching is About Serving and Giving Back: Before choosing teaching, Mashudu Bhengu was interested in pursuing a career in nursing or social work, drawn to community service and giving back. In 2013, volunteering at an NGO in Lawley, she facilitated after-school classes for disadvantaged children. This experience sparked her passion for teaching, leading her to enrol in teaching studies at UNISA. One of Mashudu’s favourite aspects of working with children is their purity and honesty. She finds immense joy and fulfilment in teaching, seeing her efforts and commitment reciprocated with love and enthusiasm by her students. For Mashudu, no other career could bring such personal satisfaction. On Her Mentor and Teaching Influence: Mashudu vividly remembers her Grade 3 teacher, Mrs Harding, who significantly impacted her life. Mrs Harding’s patience, empathy, and unwavering support inspired Mashudu’s teaching career. Mashudu aspires to be a ‘Mrs Harding’ for her students, boosting their confidence, instilling a love of learning, and encouraging them to strive for more. On Her A-ha Moments: As a foundation phase teacher, Mashudu often wonders how much her young students absorb. But she is vindicated when she sees them apply their learning to solve problems, which gives her real thrill to see then work things out for themselves. Her A-ha moments come not just from their academic achievements, but also from witnessing her students develop as unique individuals. For Mashudu, teaching at the foundational stage is a profound journey, extending well beyond ‘subject matter’. While she may be teaching Zulu, Mashudu also knows she is nurturing young minds and hearts, instilling essential social, emotional, and life skills. On Teaching at Crawford International: Mashudu loves Crawford’s student-centred approach and the mutual respect between students and teachers. At Crawford, teachers encourage students to be self-empowered, curious, and responsible for their success. They teach the value of kindness, resilience, and curiosity, helping students navigate their emotions and interactions. The pride Mashudu feels when her dedication resonates beyond the classroom is immense. In her Zulu classes, Mashudu balances her student’s tech exposure with activities like singing, music, dancing, and rhymes, engaging all senses and learning styles. These activities provide a welcome break from technology, allowing children to enjoy spontaneity and just be children. Personal Philosophy: One of Mashudu’s favourite quotes is by Will Smith: “Following your dreams is a lonely, solitary, scary pursuit. You can't wait for somebody to think you can do it. You have to be willing to risk everything to become that seed of what you believe is in there. You have to be fearless. You have to be relentless in the pursuit of your dream.”
Actress Roxanne Van Der Westhuizen in Crawford International alumni spotlight.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN

By Neo Moshoeu • May 23, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: ROXANNE VAN DER WESTHUIZEN Crawford International Lonehill | Class of 2009 From the banking halls of one of South Africa’s most prestigious financial institutions to the stages and studios of New York City, Roxanne Van der Westhuizen’s story is one of courage, reinvention and the pursuit of purpose. Chasing the Calling After matriculating from Crawford International Lonehill in 2009, Roxanne was accepted into the Psychology programme at the University of Cape Town. A sudden family crisis and financial hardship brought her back to Johannesburg, where she began working to support her family. Years later, determined to finish what she started, she enrolled at Varsity College in Sandton. Balancing motherhood, full-time employment and a rigorous academic load, she earned her degree with distinction, graduating at the top of her class. Her career began at Investec Bank, where she rose through the ranks, first in client services and later in data analytics. Her success came through persistence, grit and repeated setbacks that ultimately redirected her. A moment of deep personal reflection led her to reconnect with a long-suppressed calling, storytelling through performance. In a bold leap of faith, she left her corporate life behind and relocated to New York to pursue acting. There, she studied under renowned acting coach Terry Knickerbocker, known for mentoring names such as Sam Rockwell and Daniel Craig. She was named Student of the Season at his studio. Today, Roxanne stars in stage and screen productions across the U.S., including her lead role in the upcoming film Emancipation of the Past (July 2025), and a standout performance as Regina in Not to Be Played With (available on Tubi and AppleTV). She is also developing her own series, which she plans to take to festivals and production houses. Achievements and Projects Lead role in Emancipation of the Past (2025 release) Featured in Not to Be Played With on Tubi and Apple TV Collaboration on Spicy Bob alongside Pete Simpson of Blue Man Group Student of the Season at Terry Knickerbocker Studio Creator and writer of a new series currently in development  Roxanne reflects on her journey and earning one of her biggest roles yet, “this is the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do, but also the most enriching. The vulnerability required in acting is daunting, but it connects me to myself and others in ways I never imagined. Despite the false starts and failures, I am exactly where I am meant to be.”
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