NRA 2025 – 2026 Nominations

We are pleased to present the nominated candidates for the Napier Residents’ Association (NRA) Executive Committee for the 2025–2026 term. Each nominee brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives, united by a shared commitment to the well-being and future of Napier. Below you’ll find their personal statements, offering insight into their backgrounds and motivations for serving our community.

Kevin Poulter

I moved to Napier four years ago, having previously lived in Cape Town and Pringle Bay. I’m divorced and the proud father of four children, aged between 17 and 29. I live in a committed partnership and have grown deeply attached to Napier’s people, spirit, and potential. Before becoming actively involved, I took time to understand the town, its dynamics, and its needs, and have now been involved in the community for over three and a half years.

Professionally, my background spans IT, manufacturing, retail, and real estate. I have served as the owner and managing director of several companies, including an IT firm, a toy and education business, and an eco-packaging company. I now work as a property practitioner with InfoProp Real Estate, staying closely informed on policies and developments that impact our town and its residents.

Before Napier, I was active in Pringle Bay where I helped organize community events like the Pringle Bay Festival. I’ve also spent over a decade promoting robotics education in schools, and have a history of involvement in community, church, and school initiatives. Since being elected Chairperson of the Napier Residents’ Association in September 2024, I’ve worked on issues including public participation, service delivery, local development, and sustainability.

“I stand for continued progress through collaboration and advocacy. I believe Napier has the potential to thrive when we work together, and I am committed to being part of that journey.”

To know more about me visit http://www.thereal.co.za/kpoulter

Lucen Stuart

I was born in Napier and grew up at Sand Drift farm just outside Napier where I planted onions and then moved to Napier informal settlements. She initially pursued a career in Early Childhood Development (ECD) before realizing it wasn’t the right fit for me. I now work as a cleaner at Dr Peterson.

As a passionate community member, I serve as the Chairperson of the Informal Settlement Committee. I was previously involved with the Neighbourhood Watch. My commitment to my community is evident in my work in the Informal Settlement where I live. My home, with its beautifully tended garden, reflects my dedication and nurturing spirit. As I put it, “Ek is baie liefdevol en geestelik als mk vr my saak.”

A proud graduate of Albert Myburgh Secondary School, I am also a devoted single mother to my 8-year-old daughter, who is a central part of my life. Meeting me will reveals a strong, determined woman who is making significant strides in my community. My exemplifies leadership and compassion, embodying the strength and heart of my community.

With my passion for my local community and past and present involvement in different community activities I would be a valuable member of the NRA.  My involvement in the NRA brings other perspectives in responding to CAM in giving insight to a broader community.

Bring together our community can only strengthen our town and create a single voice to CAM on the needs of our community.

Colin Tonkin

We moved to Napier almost 3 years ago, having always wanted to live somewhere smaller. I had lived my whole life in Cape Town and after 26 years of raising our children in Rondebosch the Covid pandemic gave us the impetus to close that chapter and follow our dream to the Overberg. At that stage our 2 children were grown and out the house, Cheryl my wife was teaching part-time, and my work had gone online. Napier has an ideal combination of size, setting, and distance from the sea and Cape Town, so we bought, built and moved, and are loving this community with its challenges but also it’s warm hearted, friendly people.

My professional life started in the teaching world but eventually landed in IT. For the past several years I have specialised as a data analyst working mostly on large corporate projects. This will continue for the foreseeable future although I now work as an independent contractor and consultant to create flexibility for other involvements.

During our years in Cape Town, I was active in several property Body Corporates, including the complex in which we lived, where I was the Trustee responsible for maintenance for 25 years. Our children’s schooling years offered opportunities to contribute to those communities by serving on Governing Bodies. I participated as a governor at Westerford High School as well as Claremont High School, which was established during that time in partnership with Westerford to offer high quality education to learners who could not afford the fees at the usual southern suburb’s schools.

Having taken the time to settle and form connections in the Napier community I would now value the opportunity to bring my service experience and energy to the NRA, which offers a way to contribute to the community, building on the solid foundation created by previous members while growing diverse and robust relationships within the town as well as with the municipal and other roleplayers. I believe we can nurture our town and community and even improve it, and I would like to play a part.

George Murtz

Personal Background
I was born and raised in Napier, where I also completed my schooling. I am married and have three children. My father serves as the pastor of a local church in Napier.

Professional Experience
I am involved in various types of work, depending on what opportunities are available. While I currently hold a permanent position, I also take on additional jobs such as painting, gardening, clearing plots, and other similar tasks.

Community Involvement
I am passionate about my community and take pride in keeping the streets around my home clean. I engage with many young men in the area, offering guidance and direction to help them build a better future.

Reason for Candidacy
I believe I can make a positive impact by working with the Napier Residents’ Association (NRA). This collaboration will help improve communication with the Cape Agulhas Municipality (CAM) to ensure the needs of our community are addressed.

Annelene Kriel

I was born and raised in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. My parents moved to Bredasdorp in 1996, and I finished my last two years of school there. Here I am still a small town girl, with my roots deeply inbedded in the Overberg.

After finishing school, I received training in the hospitality industry, which I gave up to join my mother in a small take-away business. My first job was in banking at Boland Bank, where I worked my way up the corporate ladder. But my passion won, and I resigned to become one of the two chefs at Julian’s Restaurant in Bredasdorp. During this time, I met the love of my life, got married, and started a family. I became part of the Kriel family and began working at the Moerse Farmstall, their family business. After my father-in-law’s passing, Etienne and I have been running the business. We are proud that the Moerse Farmstall will be 25 years old in November 2024 and is part of Napier’s charm and history.

I am a firm believer in helping those who can’t help themselves, especially children and the elderly. I do my best to assist in these areas because I feel so passionate about those who don’t have a voice or are silenced.

My reason for standing is simple: Napier has the potential to be the best place to live in South Africa. If we can learn to work together and stand together through tough times, we can start to make a difference, one step at a time. The cultural diversity of Napier is special, and everyone can bring something to the table. There are so many talented and passionate people in our town—my town, my home. I or raise our children. I am passionate about tourism and making Napier a destination.

Edward Marks (Wikus)

Personal Background
I was born and raised on a farm just outside Napier and moved to Nuwerus at the age of 13. I completed my schooling in Napier, where I have deep roots in the community. I am married and blessed with four children. Tragically, my son was murdered in Nuwerus, a devastating loss that fuelled my commitment to improving the safety and well-being of our community. I am also a devout Christian, and my faith guides me in all aspects of my life.

Professional Experience
I am currently employed by a local community member, where I work as a handyman. I also specializing in fencing and painting. Over the years, I have gained extensive experience in a variety of handyman roles, taking on numerous projects that require a diverse skill set. My work has always been driven by a desire to contribute positively to the community and help those in need.

Community Involvement
I am actively involved in several community initiatives. I currently serve on the Community In Blue (CIB) and participate in the local street watch program. My commitment to the community extends to various projects aimed at assisting those in need, such as helping families affected by house fires. I am particularly passionate about mentoring the young men in our area, offering guidance and support to help them make positive choices for their future.

Reason for Standing
I am standing for nomination to the Napier Residents’ Association because I believe in the power of community. There are many people in our area who need help, and I see this as an opportunity to make a real difference. My goal is to foster a spirit of unity and collaboration within our community, encouraging everyone to work together, not just for financial gain but for the betterment of our shared lives. We need to come together as a community to support each other in times of need, and I am committed to being a part of that effort.

Chony Boswell

I was born in the Western Cape but spent most of my life in various parts of South Africa, including Rustenburg, Benoni, and Pretoria. After nearly a decade of exploring different towns and provinces in search of a peaceful and welcoming place to retire, my husband Ian and I found exactly what we were looking for in Napier. We’ve now been proud residents for the past 17 months, and it truly feels like home.

I’m a mother of two adult children and a grandmother to two wonderful grandchildren. I deeply value quiet moments with my husband and friends and have always been drawn to the outdoors. My hobbies include fishing, hunting, baking, knitting, and photography—particularly capturing action shots while out on the road.

As someone who cares about community and the importance of preserving the character and charm of Napier, I would be honoured to contribute to the work of the Napier Residents Association through the Executive Committee.

Jonathan Adonis

My journey began in Cape Town, where I was born, before moving to a farm outside Elim, where I spent much of my childhood. I later attended school in Bredasdorp, shaping many of my formative experiences. In 2006, I married the love of my life, and together we’ve been blessed with two wonderful children. A year later, in 2007, we made Napier our home—a community where I’ve since planted deep roots and discovered my passion for serving others.

As a self-employed professional, I’ve dedicated much of my time to local initiatives, including the Neighbourhood Watch and community policing efforts, with a focus on creating a safer and more compassionate environment for all residents. Beyond community safety, my greatest passion lies in working with young people—guiding and mentoring them through life’s challenges and helping them discover their purpose through spiritual support and encouragement. My portfolio on CPF is Spiritual Crime Prevention and Co-Church Co-Ordinator.

As a husband, father, and active member of the community, I am committed to the wellbeing and growth of Napier. I would be honoured to continue this service as part of the Napier Residents Association Executive Committee.

Mark Muuren

My wife, Lida, and I relocated to Napier last year, drawn by its perfect blend of serene setting, proximity to the sea and Cape Town, and warm, welcoming community. After decades in Pretoria, with time spent in Bloemfontein and Umhlanga Rocks, we sought a quieter life and have embraced Napier’s unique charm and vibrant spirit.

Having semi-retired from a career in senior management within the corporate sector, I now support Lida in running her Financial Compliance practice. My recent leadership roles in Pretoria are particularly relevant to the NRA’s mission. For ten years, I served as Chairman of a secure residential estate of approximately 1,500 households, overseeing community safety and governance. Additionally, as Chairman of the Community Policing Forum (CPF) for the Brooklyn Police Station, I represented over 20,000 households, collaborating with stakeholders to enhance local security and community cohesion.

I am eager to contribute my experience, energy, and passion for community-building to the NRA. I believe my background in leadership and community engagement can support your efforts to nurture and strengthen Napier’s vibrant community. I would be honored to serve on the NRA board or in any capacity where I can make a meaningful impact. I look forward to working together to address challenges and elevate our town’s potential.

Thank you for considering my interest. I am excited about the opportunity to connect and contribute to Napier’s future.

Johanna Fillies

I am a proud and committed member of the Napier community. Born in McGregor but moved to Napier at the age of 6 when my father worked for Napier Station. I continue to live in Napier alongside my family, many of whom are also dedicated to community service. My brother, for example, is actively involved in the Community Policing Forum (CPF) and the Nuwerus Neighbourhood Watch.

I currently serve on the Napier Neighbourhood Watch as deputy Chairperson, where I help patrol the streets to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. I’m also a member of the Informal Settlement Committee, where I work to represent the needs and concerns of our community. I live in the informal settlement and understand firsthand the challenges our residents face.

My passion lies in making a real difference—bringing people together, building stronger relationships between communities, and contributing to a safer and more inclusive Napier. I believe that by working together, we can create lasting change.

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