16/07/2026
Welcome to one of the toughest articles I have had to write in years.
Not because it is difficult to find something to write about Arlene, but rather how to condense almost 30 years of getting to know her, her character, nature and what makes her unique.
If you've ever met Arlene, you'll probably understand why writing this article is so difficult. She would be far more comfortable encouraging someone else than talking about herself.
So, I came to a decision which I hope you will appreciate – one article simply won’t be enough - today we will spend a little time as I get the privilege of introducing you to Arlene.
Then over the next few weeks our articles will alternate between my journey; knowing more about Arlene; and what we are currently focussed on at FaithBuilt. So, I invite you to come on a journey with me now as I introduce you to one of the best people I know.
Arlene and I met in high school in standard 8, for our younger audience, that is now called Grade 10 😉. Sweethearts at Sweet 16.
One of the best first memories I have of us, is that the class seating got reshuffled and we ended up sitting next to each other for the first time. I was initially shy, and Arlene was friendly and engaging.
She was so easy to chat to and I wanted to get to know her more. But this article isn’t a story about us, it’s about introducing you to who Arlene is.
Looking back now, I realise that first conversation gave me a glimpse of something that has never changed—Arlene genuinely loves people.
In our youth, she volunteered to take care of the babies and toddlers at our church. Many of the children loved her very much and you would from time to time see kids not wanting to return to their parents after a service had ended.
During school she expressed a desire to look into studying to be a nurse, but had a concern that her soft heart and nature might easily become attached to patients.
In the end, God directed her to study Health and Beauty. In 2001, she qualified with a number of internationally recognised qualifications, and was also awarded Student of the Year.
I remember a time when we were travelling together and an error in my judgement resulted in us being involved in a motor vehicle accident. Thankfully neither of us was seriously injured.
In those days, the Road Accident Fund would compensate innocent parties involved in motor vehicle accidents. Arlene received a payout.
What she did next has stayed with me ever since.
Shortly afterwards, she gave the money to a local citrus farmer who had suffered a devastating season and was struggling financially.
This is the heart of who Arlene is.
She instinctively notices people who are hurting.
Sometimes that means listening.
Sometimes it means encouraging.
Sometimes it means helping in practical ways.
She simply asks, "How can I help?"
She is that person who sees you…. and lets you know you have been noticed.
She’s rarely the person seeking recognition. More often you’ll find her quietly celebrating someone else’s success from the background.
Looking back now, it's remarkable how God was preparing her long before FaithBuilt ever existed.
Her training, her compassion, her love for people, and her desire to see others flourish would all become part of the DNA of FaithBuilt.
We just didn't know it yet.
Next up, I will give you a glimpse behind the scenes of why we chose the name FaithBuilt, the logo and how this has resonated with our family and where we believe God is taking this business.
Thank you for being part of our journey. We'll see you in the next chapter.
