Qualifications & Experience
A committed advocate, experienced speaker, and lifelong learner — dedicated to making a difference in the epilepsy community.
Credentials
BA in Psychology
University of South Africa (UNISA)
Higher Diplomas in Education
Qualified educator across multiple disciplines
Speech & Drama Qualification
Trinity College, Dublin
Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM)
Toastmasters International's highest educational achievement. Former Division Director, Cape Town.
Chairlady — South African Disability Alliance (SADA)
National disability rights leadership and advocacy
International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) — Africa Vice Chairperson
International Bureau for Epilepsy — Reducing Epilepsy Stigma in Africa
Experience Timeline
Principal, Head of School & College Director — Montessori Education South Africa
Fifteen years leading Montessori schools, developing curriculum, and building educational communities. A formative chapter in Sharlene's career as an educator and leader.
Board Member — Epilepsy South Africa, Gauteng Branch
Joined the Epilepsy SA Gauteng Branch board, bringing executive and educational leadership experience to grassroots epilepsy advocacy and community support.
National Leadership Appointment
Appointed the first person with epilepsy to hold a national leadership role of this kind. The role spans policy, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and public awareness at a national level.
947 Ride Joburg — Epilepsy Awareness Campaign
Rode the 947 Ride Joburg cycling challenge as an epilepsy awareness and fundraising campaign, demonstrating that epilepsy does not define what a person can achieve.
947 Ride Joburg — Leading a Team of 30+
Led a team of more than 30 riders in the 947 Ride Joburg, turning a personal challenge into a movement for epilepsy awareness and fundraising — while living with seizures herself.
National Epilepsy Indaba Chair — Wits University
Chaired the National Epilepsy Indaba panel at Wits University on workplace stigma and access to care, driving the national conversation on epilepsy as a rights issue.
Keynote Speaker | Disability Inclusion Advocate
Chairing the South African Disability Alliance, and speaking at corporate, healthcare, education, and NPO events across South Africa on epilepsy, inclusion, and resilience.
Download Sharlene's Speaker Profile
For booking coordinators and event planners — download Sharlene's full speaker sheet including bio, topics, format details, and technical requirements.
Download Speaker Sheet (PDF)[PLACEHOLDER: Speaker sheet PDF to be created and uploaded to /downloads/sharlene-cassel-speaker-sheet.pdf]
Book Sharlene for Your Event
Experienced, credible, and deeply human. Book Sharlene and bring epilepsy awareness to your community.