Operations Manager, EMI South Africa

Professional Training & Experience

Karolien graduated from the University of Cape Town in 2015 with a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. For a number of years she worked in the non-profit sector, working as a field social worker and programme manager on projects that supported children and families from high-risk neighbourhoods in Cape Town. Karolien took a brief sabbatical at the beginning of 2021. Thereafter, she transitioned into working in a temporary role at her local church as an events coordinator and administrator.  In January 2022, Karolien began working as the Communications Coordinator at EMI South Africa.  She transitioned into the role of Operations Manager in January 2023. 

Ministry Experience

Karolien came to faith as a young adult while in university, having grown up in a family of non-believers. Since then, she has faithfully listened for God's call on her life and followed where He has led her. She is a deacon at her church, Common Ground, Sea Point (Cape Town), and is blessed with a very loving and active community of fellow Christ-followers.

Family

Karolien was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, but moved to Cape Town with her family in 2005 and has lived there since. She has 4 siblings. Karolien is married to Richard d'Arifat, a French-Mauritian, and they live in the southern suburbs (Cape Town).