If you haven’t met me yet, my name might give you a hint that I didn’t grow up in America but on a farm in the heart of South Africa's prairies. In South Africa, Marietjie is a common name, pronounced "Marie-Kee." My upbringing was deeply rooted in farm life, where I spent my days milking cows, gathering kindling for our stove, and appreciating electricity as a rare luxury.

After high school, I left the simplicity of farm life for the bright lights of Pretoria, where I attended the University of Pretoria. It was here that my life took a significant turn when I heard the gospel from Pastor Conrad Mbewe at a youth camp, leading me to a personal relationship with the Lord. My early dreams included becoming a missionary to Sudan, but God had different plans. I met the love of my life, Anton, and we eventually moved to Los Angeles, where he attended The Master's Seminary. We are blessed with two daughters, Naomi and Olivia.

For the past 22 years, God has placed a deep desire in my heart for children and children's ministry. From Northern California to North Dakota, I have been dedicated to leading and directing children's ministry, helping moms with toddlers find comfort, wisdom, and discernment from Scripture. My mission is to guide women and children towards knowing the one true God and to be saved through faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of Child Evangelism Fellowship, where I continue to serve in the lives of children, teens, children's ministry workers, and moms. It's a joy and a privilege to help raise the next generation in the ways of the Lord.