Meet the Team
Your guides on the journey.
At Quest Africa, our team is built on a foundation of resilience, adventure, and mentorship. Each of us brings a unique perspective, skillset, and life experience to guide and support students through their transformative journey.
On the ground
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John Laing:
Operations Director
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Japh Mpofu:
Senior Facilitator, Course Leader for Men’s Core & Core Plus
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Max Creasy:
Facilitator
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Jenny Swart:
Admissions & Liaison
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Leonie Nel:
Administration
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John Laing
Operations Director
Born and raised in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, John has always had a deep connection to nature and adventure.
By profession, John is Zimbabwean walking guide, he earned his Professional Guides License and immersed himself in the wildlife industry. His adventurous spirit led him on a remarkable 4-month journey from London to Cape Town, traveling 35,000 km across 34 countries in a Land Rover.
John has also lived in the UK where he gained invaluable experience in financial compliance, including a role within Anti-Money Laundering Compliance. His work exposed him to the complexities of tracing global finance and reinforced his passion for integrity and justice.
A devoted family man, John lives with his wife and 2 children on campus. His Zimbabwean roots remain a core part of his identity, shaping his resilience, work ethic, and commitment to uplifting others. Whether advocating for conservation, mentoring others, or standing up for what is right, John is dedicated to leaving a lasting positive impact on the world.
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Japh Mpofu
Senior Facilitator, Course Leader for Men’s Core & Core Plus
“Mr. M”, a born & raised in the Bulawayo area of Zimbabwe. He himself graduated from Quest in 2014, leaving such a lasting impression during his seven-month journey that he was invited to join as a course facilitator. Since then, he has been a source of inspiration and support for numerous young men and women. Japh is a man of many talents, leading the Physical and Media acumens, and also serving as the Senior Facilitator for the Men’s Core.
Fortunately, Japh’s passions align perfectly with his role at Quest, as he holds a deep enthusiasm for health, fitness, and the outdoors. He takes immense pride in his ability to inspire and nurture others, fostering a lifelong interest in these areas. The overwhelmingly positive testimonials received at the conclusion of each course attest to him being an extraordinary role model and mentor for Questors.
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Max Creasy
Facilitator
A former Quest Africa student, Max’s background blends adventure, academics, and leadership. Born in West Sussex, England, with a family deeply connected to Africa, his adventurous spirit led him to hike the Himalayas and climb Mt. Kenya at a young age. With a degree in Global Challenges from Brunel University and an MA in International Relations from King’s College London, he brings a global perspective to Quest. His passion for endurance sports, leadership experience as a university tennis captain, and involvement in international charities highlight his drive for growth and impact. Max believes in authenticity, resilience, and purposeful action—principles he hopes to instill in those he mentors.
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Jenny Swart
Admissions & Liaison
Jenny has managed the role of Applications Liaison for Quest Africa for over 15 years. As a first port of call for course enquiries, her knowledge of the programme helps prospective students and parents understand exactly what Quest Africa offers. This ensures that selected candidates are a good fit for the course and ultimately get the most out of their time spent with us. Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Jenny was educated in Marondera where her parents owned a large-scale farming enterprise. Before joining Quest, Jenny ran a successful farming business alongside her husband, Dan, managing the financial and administrative side of the business. She also managed a flock of 600 sheep. She currently lives in Lake Kariba with Dan and her 4 dogs,
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Leonie Nel
Administration
With a background in seed technology, sports management, and coaching, Leonie has dedicated her career to education and mentorship. Raised in Zimbabwe, she initially planned to work on her family farm but instead embraced a life of discovery—traveling, competing in sports, and inspiring young minds through teaching and coaching. She believes in resilience and perseverance, living by the motto: „When life knocks you down, rise like the Phoenix with renewed determination and purpose.“
At Quest, Leonie thrives in an environment that values innovation, teamwork, and student growth. She finds fulfillment in mentoring students, helping them build confidence and lifelong skills. Passionate about the outdoors and Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, she continues to inspire through her dedication, positivity, and commitment to excellence.
Back of House
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Sialas:
Workshop & Teacher – Welding, Plumbing, Electrics
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Lovemore Sithole:
Ecopark, Gardner
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Edward:
Quest Cook
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Chum Mufandaedra:
Quest Cook
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Sialas
Workshop & Teacher – Welding, Plumbing, Electrics
Originally from Malawi, Sialas relocated to Zimbabwe, where he overcame significant challenges to pursue his education. With no public transportation, he walked 30 kilometers to school. Trained in safety and maintenance, he values integrity, hard work, and helping others grow. A father of eight, he thrives in Quest’s dynamic environment, mentoring students and learning alongside them. Sialas’s wisdom, empathy, and resilience make him a pillar of the Quest community.
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Lovemore Sithole
Ecopark, Gardner
Lovemore was born in Esigodini, and attended Mzinyani Secondary School so one cannot really be more home grown.
Afterschool, Lovemore worked for the DDF, a Government entity where he built and made repairs to rural bridges. Following this, Lovemore attended a three year brick laying course in Gwanda and then returned home where he was farming and started with Quiet Waters as a general hand in 2009.
In 2016 an opportunity opened up at Quest as a handyman working with basic building projects and assisted in starting the EcoPark, something that Lovemore is very passionate about today. You will often find him talking to the students about what is currently needed to be planted or what needs to be harvested amongst his chickens and worm farm.
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Edward
Quest Cook
Bonani (Edward) Mpofu was born in Esigodini General hospital and attended Sigola Primary school here in the Esigodini Valley and then for senior school attend Induna Barracks in Bulawayo. Edward started as a gardener at Falcon college in 1997 and in 2004 he moved to the kitchen where his passion for cooking took off. Amongst Edward’s favourites is cooking up pastries, and in particular he does a fantastic chicken pie, oh, and his roast beef…
Edward joined Quest in 2018 and has now mastered the new kitchen layout and appliances. Edward is often heard among the students encouraging them to pursue a career in the kitchen.
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Chum Mufandaedra
Quest Cook
Born and raised in a little mining town, Zvishavane, Zimbabwe, Chum has always had a deep passion for cooking.
Chum started his cooking career at Falcon College where he learned to cook and was then transferred over to Quest where he was the youngest member of staff on the team.
In his spare time, Chum likes to play and watch football and is an avid Liverpool supporter. Chum also like to learn from the students that come through Quest, saying “Quest is my hero because Quest is my life”.
External Support
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Sue Bryant:
Yoga & school Nurse
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Will Randal:
Mountaineering & Orienteering
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Paul Write:
External Facilitator
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Emma Sole:
Enneogram
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Sue Bryant
Yoga & school Nurse
Sue Bryant, born in Bulawayo, received her education in the same city. She embarked on her nursing career immediately after completing school and underwent training at United Bulawayo Hospitals, specializing in trauma nursing. Sue further pursued her professional development by completing Advanced Trauma Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support training. Additionally, she obtained qualifications to teach first aid and management development courses.
For a span of 17 years, Sue dedicated her services to a private ambulance service, steadily climbing the ranks until she assumed the role of Base Manager. Her experience and expertise in this field led her to join Falcon College, where she currently works.
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Will Randal
Mountaineering & Orienteering
Born and educated in the UK, Will Randle completed his formal education with a degree in Biology. He spent a rewarding 18 years in the British Army where, amongst other things, he developed a passion for mountaineering and expedition work. In 1994 he moved to Zimbabwe with his wife Brigitte (a Zimbabwean) and their young family to take up a teaching role at Falcon College. At Falcon he was a Housemaster for 18 years, coached sport, developed leadership programmes and continued expedition work. In 2014 he took on the role of Operations Manager at Quest. He continued in this fulfilling role until August 2022.
Will remains involved with Quest, especially during student outdoor challenges. His expertise in climbing and abseiling, orienteering and navigation, camping and survival add significantly to the value of Quest’s outdoor programme.
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Paul Write
External Facilitator
Born, raised, and schooled in Zimbabwe Paul holds 2 Degrees in Theology: Practical Theology &.Religious Arts in Theology. Paul is also a fully certified and accredited Life Coach, and also certified in Life, Holistic Heath, and Wellness Coaching, (three different disciplines) . Previously Paul was the College Counsellor at a Private all boys college in Harare for 11 years until his retirement. He now teaches Life Skills to Lower and Upper 6 at the college, covering a wide range of topics. With Paul’s diverse experience with young people he is now engaged with Quest Africa to assist the Students with building their CV’s as well as assist them with their understanding of “life after Quest”.
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Emma Sole
Enneogram
Emma Sole is a qualified Integrative Enneagram Practitioner and junior counsellor with a heart for personal growth and transformation. She works primarily with young people, helping them better understand themselves, navigate life’s challenges, and uncover their unique sense of purpose. Through a blend of Enneagram insight and counselling support, Emma empowers Questers to grow in self-awareness, build confidence, and take meaningful steps toward a fulfilling future. Emma help young people grow in self-awareness, confidence, and purpose through Enneagram insight and counselling.
Quest Committee
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Harry Greaves:
Chairman
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Harvey Leared:
Visionary, Leader & Founder
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Harry Greaves
Chairman
BSC Agric, Honours, is a 4th generation Matabele of farming stock. A leader in adventure, agriculture, and business, Harry’s life has been one of challenge and triumph. With experience running a safari business, farming and working in the gold, chrome and lithium mining industry, he embodies resilience and determination.
His motto, „Today is not a dress rehearsal, don’t waste it,“ reflects his belief in embracing every opportunity and inspiring students to do the same. Harry serves on several boards including the Falcom College Trust and was a founding partner of Prospect Resources.
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Harvey Leared
Visionary, Leader & Founder
Harvey was raised on a farm in the Horseshoe Farming Block and educated at Ruzawi, Prince Edward School, and the University of Cape Town. His career began in farming until land reform in 2000 led him to pursue an Executive MBA and transition into the corporate sector as CEO of Unifreight and Origen. As a founding partner of Silverlands, he spent 15 years investing in Southern and East Africa while also venturing into hospitality and real estate. His deep-rooted commitment to education saw him serve on the Falcon College board for 2 decades, where he co-founded Quest Africa with Mark Saunders and Andy Laing.
A firm believer in resilience and action, Harvey lives by the motto: „Always put more into the system than you take out. Get Things Done!“ His passion for character development, education, and instilling a ‚can-do‘ attitude in young Zimbabweans remains a driving force behind his work. Married to Debbie with four children and four grandchildren, he continues to inspire through his leadership, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to empowering future generations.
The Original Campus
Beyond the National Parks – into the true Wild