Meet the Team
Michelle is the heart of all things operational at The Underdog Project and currently serves as our Acting Managing Director. She brings endless patience, empathy, and compassion to everything related to the people and animals we encounter. A registered counsellor, qualified dog trainer, and certified animal behaviourist through COAPE, Michelle combines her diverse expertise to create deeply meaningful and effective programmes. She continuously enriches our work with relevant content and innovative dog training activities that help youth and dogs learn, grow, and heal together in a safe, supportive environment. Michelle is a steady, trusted presence for everyone she works with – always going above and beyond to support our beneficiaries, both two- and four-legged.
Emily is our Communications and Programme Support Lead and is an integral part of The Underdog Project. With an Honours degree in Psychology and a background in dog training, she brings warmth, insight, and creativity to everything she does. Emily has a natural ability to connect with both youth and dogs, creating a sense of trust and belonging wherever she goes. Her infectious laugh, dedication, and thoughtful approach makes her a vital part of the team, as she embodies our values through her empathy, optimism, and unwavering commitment to helping The Underdog Project grow and thrive.
Sphelele Ndovela (Eazy)
Facilitator
Sphelele (Eazy) was the first ex-beneficiary to join The Underdog Project team, and we were thrilled to welcome him soon after he finished school. He is a wonderful mentor to the youth and an incredible, patient trainer with the dogs. Eazy brings kindness, reliability, and a confident energy to every session he runs. In between studying to become a teacher, he continues to grow in his role, taking initiative and inspiring those around him.
Siyamthanda Gqomani
Facilitator
Siya is the second ex-beneficiary to join The Underdog Project team as an intern facilitator. He first became involved as a peer leader, where his passion for dog training and natural ability to connect with others quickly stood out. Today, Siya helps run our sessions with confidence and care, guiding youth and dogs alike with patience and understanding. He has a gentle way with the dogs and a real gift for teaching and supporting the younger trainers. Siya embodies our values through his kindness, commitment, and calm leadership.
Lethu Lembar Nondyola
Intern Facilitator
Lethu is the third ex-beneficiary to join The Underdog Project team, and we couldn’t be prouder. From day one, he has shown incredible initiative, enthusiasm, and determination in his role. Always ready to lend a hand, Lethu brings positive energy and reliability to everything he does. Having walked the journey himself, he brings unique insight and empathy to our work with the youth and dogs. His commitment to giving back and his “can-do” attitude inspire everyone around him.