Shaping excellence in education through science, strategy, and heart.
Led with experience, driven by purpose.
Johan Kruger, the founder of MindtheHeart, together with his team of industrial psychologists, brings more than three decades of experience in leadership development, strategy, and organisational transformation. His career has spanned both the corporate and education sectors, including senior roles at Consulta where he directed international customer experience and strategy projects.
He has served for over a decade on school governing bodies, including eight years as chairperson, giving him deep insight into the unique challenges schools face. His professional and personal journey has culminated in a focused passion: to bring the science of excellence into schools, equipping leaders, teachers, and communities to thrive. His purpose is not abstract but personal, rooted in the belief that schools shape the character and future of every child who walks through their gates.
Supported by a network of local and international specialists, Johan combines robust science with practical tools to deliver measurable results for schools across South Africa.
Emilise Rautenbach is the founder of DARE Training and a behavioural consultant and coach with more than two decades of experience in education, leadership development, and personal growth. She holds a Master’s degree in Psychology, international coaching credentials, and certification as an international NBI consultant and coach. Since founding DARE in 2003, Emilise has designed and delivered training programmes focused on thinking preferences, emotional intelligence and resilience, stress and conflict management, effective communication, adaptability, and high-functioning team collaboration, working with diverse audiences locally and internationally. Her work has included international conference engagements and the co-development of programmes centred on excellence and community intelligence.
Her background as an educator, combined with her consulting and coaching work, has given her a deep understanding of the realities facing schools and leadership teams. Emilise is known for her ability to translate sound psychological science into practical, human-centred tools that support sustainable behavioural change. Her work is guided by a clear conviction: that excellence is not accidental, but cultivated through intentional thinking, healthy relationships, and consistent action.
Driven by science, guided by heart
Our approach is simple but powerful. Every engagement is rooted in:
Scientific models adapted from psychology and organisational excellence
Practical tools designed for real-world school environments
A deep respect for the character and ethos of each unique school.
Building schools of excellence.
From strategic audits to full transformation programmes, our work equips schools to define their identity, align leadership, and embed a culture of continuous growth. Schools that partner with MindtheHeart are empowered to protect their character, embrace innovation, and build sustainable futures for their learners and communities
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