Meet the Team
Dedication. Expertise. Passion.
Founder and Chairperson
Claire Revell
Claire discovered her love for South Africa and its people during her first visit to Durban in 2008 and is known as 'Aunty Claire' and ‘Mama Claire’ to many of the children she has supported over the years.
Since meeting Lindan & Thobeko in 2010, the first two boys she sponsored, Claire has been committed to supporting the Inchanga community, and surrounding areas.
Whether she's sponsoring children through education or spearheading projects like building new classrooms, she's combined her love for business with her passion for making a difference.
Claire is business savvy, and with 20+ years experience, she is responsible for the operations and financial oversight of the NPO. However you won't often find her confined to a desk all day!!
Claire has a selfless nature, is great at empowering others to get the best out of them, and has a very ‘hands on’ approach, which means she is out in the community helping wherever she can!
You can learn more about Claire, her professional background and her personal journey at www.clairerevell.com.
Vice Chairperson & CEO
Jay Revell
Jay first visited South Africa in 2017 with wife Claire, thinking it was just a month long holiday! But it didn’t take long for him to feel completely at home.
Jay is a natural protector, who will help anyone, anytime. Nothing is ever too much trouble.
With a knack for making people laugh (even with his worst dad jokes!!), he’s all about creating a warm, inclusive community where everyone feels like extended family, and those who join the Opening Doors team feel truly part of the journey.
Jay will spend a lot of time travelling back and forth to Durban Home Affairs, to assist those in need of getting their ID, and those with no transport. His responsibilities will also include managing the day-to-day running of all projects, social media, fundraising, and anything else that needs doing!
Jay, along with Aaron, are particularly excited to start a local football team, combining their love for the game with their passion for bringing people together.
Community Liaison
Sonto Msomi
Sonto is a passionate educator at Siphesihle High School who brings energy and innovation to every lesson... even to the sleepiest students on a Monday morning!!
As Community Liaison, she draws on her lifelong roots in Inchanga, Ximba, and Hammersdale to build strong school–family partnerships.
Ambitious and driven, Sonto is always exploring new ways to inspire her students and grow professionally.
A proud mother of two lively boys, she thrives on spontaneous adventures, enjoys sport, and loves unwinding to good music.
Big Brother & Handyman
Aaron Revell
At 6'8", Aaron is literally the big brother of the Opening Doors family! He first visited South Africa in January 2024 and just two weeks into the volunteering trip, he knew he wanted to stay.
Despite his towering height, Aaron is a kind, friendly giant with the biggest heart, and, as he’ll tell you, he’s funnier than his dad, Jay!!
Volunteering alongside his family, Aaron’s role is all about lending a helping hand, whether it’s with tools or offering support to the kids in the community.
At just 17, he sees this as an incredible opportunity to make a difference.
No one has ever become poor by giving.
- Anne Frank