Born into a very staunch Catholic, Mauritian family, Dawn had a good Catholic education. She completed her primary education at St Augustine’s in Durban and her high school years were spent at Marian High in the Cape. After matric, she went on to complete her Teacher’s Diploma at Hewat Training College, before acquiring a Bachelor of Arts degree through UNISA.

Having joined the teaching profession in 1979, Dawn spent almost four decades in the classroom, teaching primary school pupils and, by her own admission, probably learning more from the children than they learned from her.

As an educator, she was graced with many opportunities to use her talents for music and drama. These she harnessed to produce many musicals and plays, giving her pupils the opportunity to develop and showcase their creative talents and skills. This she believed (and continues to be believe) is important for learners, especially those who need more than academic achievement to develop, grow and find meaning in their lives.

The highlight of Dawn’s studies was her time studying at St. Joseph’s Scholasticate in Cedara and St. Augustines College in Johannesburg, where she acquired an Honours Degree in Religious Education and Moral Values. These studies, and the time she spent in a religious community, helped her discover her true passion – the Liturgy, Prayer and the role of music in both.

Growing up in a struggling, broken, coloured community Dawn developed a desire to journey with others in their brokenness. Music, prayer and Liturgy helped her walk with them in their search for themselves and God. Consequently, she is particularly passionate about using her knowledge and experience to help build people and their relationships with themselves, others and God.

Dawn retired from the teaching profession in 2014 and since 2018 has had a part time position as a Field- worker in the KZN Catholic Schools Office. The position has given her the opportunity to engage with educators and learners and for her to share her skills and talents in Catholic Education.